Gary Smith III has not played in a game since the 2023 season. That will change when he takes the field this fall for UCLA. Injuries have been an unfortunate part of Smith’s college journey. However, he has been one of the players talked about most for the Bruins this summer.
“I missed being out here with the guys,” he said Wednesday. “I’m back healthy now. So I’m just excited to be out here and roll around and have fun. Fall camp is always fun.”
An injury ahead of the season forced Smith to miss the entire year. Injuries impacted his 2023 campaign as well. He was still able to play in 10 games and rack up 21 tackles, however.
Smith has reshaped his body this offseason, and he figures to be a cornerstone of the front.
“This whole offseason, just make sure I was taking care of my body,” he said. “As far as rehabbing, staying consistent. Being consistent is the main thing. I also changed my diet. And, it worked for me.
“Just excited to be back out here.”
Clean eating has led to a drop of around 20 pounds for Smith. He said cutting out fast food and cheat meals has been key to changing his body. It has led to several important differences on the field.
“I feel lighter on my feet,” he said. “Feel explosive. I feel twitchy again. And, I just feel good. I’m excited.”
Smith and Keanu Williams are expected to form an important duo along the defensive line for the Bruins. Now, both are healthy and they should be an important component for the UCLA defense.
“All of us are going to pitch in,” Smith said. “And, we’re gonna get the job done for sure.”
Video recorded by BruinBlitz staff writer Tracy McDannald.