Ohio State University has announced plans to immortalise the late Buckeyes legend Will Smith with a life-size bronze statue, set to be unveiled in Fall 2026 near Ohio Stadium, as revealed on 28 July 2025. The tribute celebrates Smith’s pivotal role as a defensive end on the 2002 national championship team, where his relentless pass-rushing and leadership helped secure the Buckeyes’ first title in 34 years. Smith, who tragically passed away in 2016, is remembered not only for his on-field dominance but also for his philanthropy and community impact. The announcement, shared widely on X, has sparked an outpouring of support from fans, with many praising the university’s decision to honour a true Ohio State icon.
Smith’s football legacy at Ohio State remains etched in Buckeye history, with 23 sacks and 45.5 tackles for loss over his career from 2000 to 2003. His standout performance in the 2002 Fiesta Bowl, including a critical sack on Miami’s Ken Dorsey, was instrumental in Ohio State’s 31-24 double-overtime victory. Beyond the gridiron, Smith’s charitable work, particularly his support for underprivileged youth in Columbus, endeared him to the community. Posts on X highlight fans’ emotional connection, with one user calling the statue “a fitting tribute to a man who embodied Buckeye spirit.” The bronze statue, to be crafted by a renowned sculptor, will depict Smith in his iconic No. 91 jersey, mid-action, symbolising his relentless drive.
In addition to the statue, Ohio State unveiled plans for the Will Smith Scholarship Fund, aimed at supporting student-athletes from underserved backgrounds. The scholarship, funded initially with £790,000 ($1 million) from alumni donations, will provide academic and athletic opportunities, reflecting Smith’s commitment to giving back. University president Walter Carter described Smith as “a leader who inspired both on and off the field,” noting that the initiative aligns with Ohio State’s recent success in the 2024-25 Capital One Cup for men’s athletics. The dual tribute underscores Smith’s lasting impact, with fans on X already rallying to contribute to the fund, ensuring his legacy endures for future generations.
The decision to honour Smith comes amid a wave of nostalgia for the 2002 championship team, with Ohio State capitalising on recent successes, including quarterback Will Howard’s leadership in the 2024 national championship run. However, some X posts have sparked debate, with users noting the university’s selective recognition of past players, referencing overlooked contributions from figures like Lee Corso. Despite this, the consensus among Buckeye faithful is that Smith’s statue is a deserved accolade for a player whose 13.5 sacks in 2002 remain a program benchmark. The unveiling, planned for a home game in 2026, is expected to draw thousands, with early renderings of the statue circulating online.
As Ohio State prepares for the 2025 season, the announcement has galvanised the Buckeye community, blending pride in past triumphs with optimism for the future. The statue and scholarship not only celebrate Smith’s athletic prowess but also his character, which resonated deeply in Columbus and beyond. Social media reactions on X reflect a unified sentiment, with one fan tweeting, “Will Smith’s legacy will stand tall forever.” With the scholarship set to launch in 2026, alongside the statue’s unveiling, Ohio State is ensuring that Smith’s contributions—as a player, leader, and philanthropist—will inspire Buckeyes for decades to come.
