Texas Tech 'finalizing' a deal to hire Jacquies Smith as new OLB coach

The Texas Tech Red Raiders are set to appoint Jacquies Smith as their new outside linebackers coach. Smith, who previously held the same position with the Atlanta Falcons, brings both NFL and collegiate coaching experience to the role. His collegiate coaching background includes a stint as the Texas Longhorns assistant edge coach in 2023 and a defensive quality control position at Louisiana-Lafayette from 2019 to 2022. Smith began his coaching career at the Episcopal School of Dallas as a linebackers coach.

Smith's playing career highlights include being named to the All-Big 12 Second Team in 2011 with the Missouri Tigers and an NFL career that featured time with the Miami Dolphins, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and several other teams. He concluded his professional playing career with the XFL's Seattle Dragons.

Smith, a Dallas native, is expected to enhance Texas Tech's recruiting efforts within Texas. He replaces C.J. Ah You, who has joined the Pittsburgh Steelers.