In the immediate aftermath of the 2025 NFL Draft, the New York Jets made a potentially savvy addition, signing South Carolina State linebacker Aaron Smith as an undrafted free agent following a minicamp invitation. If history is any indicator, this under-the-radar move could pay long-term dividends.

Smith, a 6’2″, 226-pound force, wrapped up his college career with a stellar senior season at SCSU, notching 95 tackles and 8.5 tackles for loss en route to earning First Team All-MEAC honors in 2024. His performance earned him a spot at the 2025 East-West Shrine Bowl, where he turned heads with his instincts and fluidity in coverage.

While scouts have flagged concerns about his size and occasional over-pursuit, Smith’s production, football IQ, and natural feel for the game offer a strong foundation. The Jets are betting on his upside and if he develops as expected, Smith could emerge as a valuable depth piece and special teams asset with starter potential down the line.