LEXINGTON — Nic Smith, a 20-year-old redshirt freshman defensive lineman for the University of Kentucky, died on June 8, 2026. The university announced Smith's death.
The University of Kentucky Police Department received a report at 10:03 a.m. on June 8 that a student had been found dead in a residence hall, according to school spokesman Jay Blanton. An initial investigation did not indicate foul play.
Head football coach Will Stein issued a statement regarding Smith's death. "Today our hearts are broken. Our thoughts and prayers are with Nic's family, friends, teammates and everyone who knew and loved him." Stein said. He added, "This is a tremendous loss for our program and university community. We will continue to support one another and honor his memory."
Smith, who was 6-foot-5 and weighed 282 pounds, was from Loganville, Georgia. He joined the Kentucky football program as a three-star prospect from Walnut Grove High School as part of the 2025 recruiting class, choosing Kentucky over scholarship offers from Georgia Tech and Georgia Southern.
During his senior year, Smith recorded 40 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, two sacks, and 16 quarterback hurries. He also earned All-Region honors as a junior. Smith played both football and basketball for Walnut Grove High School.
Smith redshirted during the 2025 college football season. His nicknames were "Happy" and "Big Happ," according to the Kentucky athletic department website. He studied community leadership and development at the Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment. Smith also enjoyed cooking and baking and had plans to start a food business following his football career.