DQ Smith’s Legal Path to Virginia Tech | Columbia News

DQ Smith, a standout defensive back from South Carolina, is set to join Virginia Tech in 2026 after gaining an extra year of eligibility thanks to a Louisiana court injunction — one of several athletes suing the NCAA for additional seasons. A key contributor for the Gamecocks with 228 tackles and five interceptions, Smith went undrafted but earned mini-camp invites. While his path is now clear, the NCAA continues battling these legal challenges nationwide, leaving future eligibility uncertain. Despite coach Shane Beamer’s comments, the Gamecocks opted not to bring him back — even as another player with similar eligibility joins their roster. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/da0e28110c1f169b