“BUCKEYE LEGEND IMMORTALIZED — Ohio State to Unveil Life-Size Bronze Statue of Will Smith in 2026, Launches Scholarship to Honor His Legacy On and Off the Field”

The legacy of Will Smith, one of Ohio State’s most beloved football icons, is set to be forever enshrined in bronze as the university announced plans to unveil a life-size statue of the late Buckeye legend in Fall 2026. The tribute will stand proudly near Ohio Stadium, a fitting location where Smith made so many unforgettable memories that helped shape not only the course of his football career but also the very identity of Ohio State football in the early 2000s. This move is not just a celebration of Smith’s on-field prowess—it’s a powerful testament to his lifelong impact as a leader, humanitarian, and symbol of perseverance and character. Along with the statue, the university is launching the Will Smith Legacy Scholarship, aimed at supporting student-athletes who exemplify the same integrity, leadership, and commitment to service that Smith demonstrated throughout his life.

Smith’s journey from Utica, New York to becoming a national champion in Columbus is one that still echoes through the walls of the Woody Hayes Athletic Center. Recruited as a dominant defensive end out of New York’s high school ranks, Smith joined the Buckeyes in 2000 and quickly earned respect for his work ethic, intelligence, and physical dominance on the field. But it was the magical 2002 season under coach Jim Tressel that cemented his place in college football history. That year, Smith played an instrumental role on a Buckeye defense that became one of the most feared units in the country. He delivered clutch performances in key games, including the national championship game against the Miami Hurricanes, where Ohio State pulled off one of the most iconic upsets in BCS history. Smith’s relentless motor, discipline, and leadership helped push the Buckeyes to a 14-0 record and their first national title since 1968.

Even as the years passed, Smith remained a proud ambassador of Ohio State, returning to Columbus often and offering mentorship and inspiration to current players and young fans alike. After graduating, he went on to become a first-round pick in the 2004 NFL Draft by the New Orleans Saints. He carved out an impressive career in the NFL, racking up 67.5 sacks over a decade-long career and earning a Pro Bowl selection in 2006. He was an anchor on the defensive line and a crucial part of the Saints’ Super Bowl XLIV championship team. His excellence in the league only strengthened his reputation as one of the most complete football players to ever wear scarlet and gray.

But perhaps what made Will Smith such a remarkable figure was what he did off the field. Known for his generosity, grace, and quiet strength, Smith became a dedicated philanthropist, focusing especially on initiatives for children and underserved communities in both New Orleans and his hometown. His “Where There’s a Will, There’s a Way” Foundation became a beacon of hope, aiming to empower and uplift at-risk youth through education, sports, and mentorship. He saw the power of football not just as a game, but as a vehicle for personal growth and societal impact.

Tragically, Smith’s life was cut short in April 2016 when he was shot and killed during a traffic altercation in New Orleans. His death sent shockwaves through the football world and beyond, with tributes pouring in from teammates, coaches, fans, and community leaders who had been touched by his character and compassion. The senseless nature of his passing was a cruel contrast to the purposeful and uplifting life he had led. In the years since, the calls to honor his memory in a permanent, visible way have only grown louder—and now, Ohio State is answering that call in a manner befitting a true Buckeye hero.

The life-size statue, which is currently being designed by a nationally recognized sculptor with ties to Ohio State, will depict Smith in his full Buckeye uniform, capturing the fierce determination and spirit that defined him. University officials have indicated the statue’s placement will be in a high-traffic area near the main entrance to Ohio Stadium, allowing fans of all ages to encounter and reflect on Smith’s legacy every game day. The unveiling ceremony in Fall 2026 is expected to draw former teammates, NFL figures, family members, and thousands of Buckeye faithful for what promises to be an emotional and celebratory event. Plans are also underway for a tribute video and commemorative exhibit inside the stadium concourse to provide historical context and personal stories that shaped Smith’s journey.

The Will Smith Legacy Scholarship adds a powerful dimension to the tribute. Targeted at student-athletes who demonstrate a commitment to community service, academic excellence, and leadership, the scholarship will serve as a living, breathing extension of Smith’s values. Fundraising for the scholarship has already begun, with contributions pouring in from former Buckeye greats, NFL colleagues, fans, and civic organizations. The scholarship committee, composed of Ohio State administrators, Smith’s family, and former teammates, will review applicants annually and select recipients who best reflect the essence of who Will Smith was—not just as an athlete, but as a man.

For many in the Buckeye family, this honor has been long overdue. Will Smith was more than just a player—he was a symbol of everything that Ohio State strives to represent. His humility, toughness, and commitment to others stood in stark contrast to the self-promotion that too often dominates modern sports. To enshrine his image near the stadium he helped electrify is not only a tribute to past glories but a beacon of inspiration for future generations of Buckeyes who will walk past that statue and learn about a man who lived with purpose, courage, and heart.

Former coach Jim Tressel, who coached Smith during the 2002 championship run, shared his emotions upon hearing the announcement: “Will was the kind of player who made everyone around him better—on the field, in the locker room, in life. He was the heartbeat of that national championship team. More than that, he was a wonderful human being. This statue and scholarship ensure that his story, his values, and his spirit will never be forgotten at Ohio State.”

Indeed, the emotion surrounding this announcement is not confined to Columbus. In New Orleans, where Smith spent the majority of his professional career and built his family, the news was met with deep gratitude and celebration. The Saints released a statement praising the tribute and affirming that Smith’s impact went far beyond the gridiron. Fans in both cities—two places where Smith left an indelible mark—now have another point of connection to a man who gave so much of himself.

As the countdown to Fall 2026 begins, the university is also planning a series of community events and storytelling initiatives in the months leading up to the unveiling. These include panel discussions with former teammates, youth outreach programs, and a digital archive of Will Smith’s life and legacy. The goal, university officials say, is not only to honor a legend but to educate and inspire. “Will Smith’s story is one that must be told again and again,” said Ohio State President Walter Carter. “It’s about resilience. It’s about service. It’s about lifting others up. This statue is not just about remembering a great Buckeye—it’s about continuing his mission to make the world better.”

In an era where statues and monuments have become subjects of scrutiny, Ohio State’s decision to honor Will Smith stands as a deeply thoughtful, widely embraced gesture. It’s a reminder that greatness is not just measured in championships or stats, but in the depth of one’s character and the breadth of their impact. Will Smith embodied the best of what it means to be a Buckeye. Now, with his image cast in bronze and his name tied to a scholarship of purpose, that legacy will stand tall forever—watching over the Horseshoe, inspiring the next generation, and reminding us all what it truly means to live a life that matters.