Warren G. Harding football standout Zay’Vion Smith committed to the University of Cincinnati on Wednesday.

Smith, a Class of 2027 prospect listed at 6-foot-5, 260 pounds, has starred on both sides of the ball with the Raiders.

He had 30 tackles, 12 tackles for loss and three sacks on defense this past season, although he said he is expected to play offensive tackle with the Bearcats.

After considering Pitt, Iowa State, Arizona and UConn, Smith chose Cincinnati, citing a strong relationship with Nic Cardwell, the co-offensive coordinator and offensive line coach.

“The coaches, I went on a few visits there, and they made it feel like home to me,” Smith said. “I can just see myself playing there for the next four years. … I feel like [Cardwell’s] the man who I want to coach me at the next level.”

Smith, who was a first team All-Inland District O-lineman and received All-Ohio honorable mention as a junior, said he is considering becoming an early enrollee and joining the Bearcats in December, which is why he decided to commit now rather than wait until closer to National Signing Day next February.

While Smith said he “loved every second” of the recruiting process, which included chances to see more of the country during visits, he admitted he felt a sense of relief upon committing.

“A lot of [pressure and stress],” Smith said of the decision. “Our family really just wanted me to be happy wherever I went, and wanted to be somewhere relatively close.”

Smith said there are quite a few things he is working on in the offseason to get ready for his senior season.

“Working on my feet, IQ about reading the field, working on striking first and just getting stronger in the weight room, eating everything,” Smith said.

As for his team, Smith has one goal in mind for Harding after a 2025 season in which the Raiders finished 3-6, lost their final four games and missed the playoffs.

“I want to win the state championship,” Smith said. “That simple.”