Why Notre Dame Fans Should Pay Close Attention to KK Smith, the Underrated Speedster Ready to Break Out This Season
Notre Dame fans shouldn’t forget about KK Smith, the redshirt sophomore speedster from Texas, whose name has quietly remained under the radar while other high-profile playmakers dominate headlines and preseason conversations. In a receiver room full of emerging talent, offseason transfers, and five-star potential, Smith’s presence may not currently draw national attention. But that could change in a hurry. His combination of straight-line speed, crisp route-running, and competitive edge makes him one of the most intriguing X-factors on Notre Dame’s roster heading into the 2025 season.
Smith’s story is a familiar one to those who follow the ebb and flow of college football development. Not every playmaker bursts onto the scene as a freshman. Some players develop behind the scenes—refining their technique, absorbing the playbook, and learning what it takes to succeed at the Power Five level. Smith redshirted his first year in South Bend, and while that may have tempered early expectations, it also set the stage for what could now be a breakout campaign.
Coming out of Reedy High School in Frisco, Texas, KK Smith was a highly regarded three-star prospect with elite track speed and a reputation for big plays in space. Though he didn’t receive the same national buzz as some of Notre Dame’s blue-chip signees, his athletic profile was impressive: sub-11 second 100-meter dash speed, a fluid stride, and the kind of acceleration that defensive backs struggle to match once he hits his second gear. He arrived at Notre Dame as a developmental piece with upside, but insiders quickly noticed his work ethic and explosiveness.
Now, after two years in the program and a physically transformative offseason, Smith appears poised to contribute significantly to Notre Dame’s passing attack. The timing couldn’t be better. With the departure of several veterans and the need for more explosive perimeter threats, Smith has a clear path to snaps and targets. More importantly, his particular skill set fills a role that has been missing from Notre Dame’s offense: a true vertical threat who can stretch the field and open up space underneath for tight ends and possession receivers.
One of the challenges Notre Dame has faced in recent seasons is the lack of consistent downfield explosiveness. While the Irish have been solid in terms of ball control and physicality, they’ve often lacked a receiver who can tilt the field, turn a routine slant into a touchdown, or make safeties think twice before creeping into the box. Smith has the tools to be that player. His top-end speed forces defenders to respect the deep ball, and his ability to quickly change direction makes him a dangerous threat in screen and jet motion concepts.
Offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock is no stranger to maximizing the talents of speedy receivers. His recent success at LSU with players like Malik Nabers and Brian Thomas Jr. showed how dynamic athletes can thrive in a system that prioritizes spacing, tempo, and versatility. While no one is suggesting Smith will immediately replicate the production of those SEC stars, he has the physical gifts to take on a similar role in Notre Dame’s version of the scheme. Denbrock will likely look to deploy him in motion, use him on drag routes, and isolate him in matchups where he can exploit linebackers or slower corners.
Quarterback play will be another key component of Smith’s potential rise. With new signal-caller CJ Carr entering the spotlight, the Irish offense may look to expand its vertical passing game. Carr, known for his accuracy and quick release, thrives when surrounded by receivers who can create separation. Smith fits that mold. His ability to get open in the intermediate and deep levels of the field can be a difference-maker in third-down situations and red zone opportunities alike. Carr doesn’t need to wait for Smith to be wide open—just a step is enough when you trust your guy to win footraces.
But what may separate Smith from others competing for touches isn’t just speed—it’s his tenacity. Coaches have repeatedly praised his willingness to block, his understanding of route timing, and his consistent effort in practice. Those are often the traits that get a player onto the field early and keep him there. In a crowded receiver room that includes players like Jaden Greathouse, Rico Flores Jr., Jordan Faison, and newcomers like Logan Saldate and Cam Williams, effort and execution will define playing time. Smith has shown he’s ready to battle.
There’s also a special teams angle worth noting. Smith’s explosiveness makes him a strong candidate for return duties. Notre Dame has been searching for game-changers in the return game ever since Chris Tyree’s departure. While guys like Faison may be more proven in that role, Smith offers an intriguing alternative—someone who can flip field position in a heartbeat. If he earns those reps, it may be the gateway to bigger responsibilities on offense. Coaches often use special teams as a proving ground, and Smith could be the latest example.
Injuries and durability are always a concern for players who rely heavily on speed, and Smith did miss parts of his first year due to minor issues. But the strength and conditioning program at Notre Dame has helped him add muscle without sacrificing burst. At 6 feet, 185 pounds, he now has the frame to absorb hits and fight through contact. That physical development could unlock more route versatility—allowing him to line up both outside and in the slot, something Denbrock highly values.
As the season approaches, Smith finds himself in a perfect position. He’s no longer an unknown freshman navigating the college game. He’s a redshirt sophomore who has had time to grow, study, and prepare. And he’s part of a team with lofty expectations—both from fans and within the locker room. Notre Dame’s goal, as always, is to compete for a playoff spot. To get there, they’ll need big plays in big moments. They’ll need receivers who can flip a game in a single snap. KK Smith may not have been the first name you circled on the roster this offseason—but by midseason, that might change.
What will ultimately define Smith’s season is opportunity and production. He doesn’t need to lead the team in receptions to make a massive impact. All it takes is a handful of explosive plays to swing games and capture national attention. Notre Dame hasn’t had a true breakout deep threat since Will Fuller terrorized secondaries almost a decade ago. Smith has a chance to be the next iteration—not necessarily in stats, but in presence. A guy defenses have to plan for. A guy fans watch closely every time he’s in motion.
And there’s something poetic about his background. A Texas-born speedster making his name in the Midwest, determined to rise from overlooked to indispensable. That’s the beauty of college football—the next star is often the one you least expect. While recruiting rankings and transfer buzz may steal the spotlight, it’s often the grinders, the redshirt sophomores, the development stories that make the biggest difference in tight games come October and November.
So as Notre Dame prepares for what it hopes will be a defining season under Marcus Freeman, KK Smith is quietly positioning himself to be one of the most impactful—and surprising—contributors on the roster. His story is still being written, but all the pieces are in place for a breakout.
In a season that promises intensity, drama, and national relevance, don’t forget about KK Smith. Because the moment he gets the ball in space, you’ll remember exactly why speed kills—and why sometimes, the next big star is already on your roster, just waiting for his chance.
