Shemar Smith

Oregon State photo edit of Shemar Smith

(Courtesy of Shemar Smith)

Rumors that Oregon State defensive coordinator Kalani Sitake could leave for the BYU head coaching position haven't slowed down the program's ability to recruit on the defensive side of the ball, as the Beavers earned a commitment from sack specialist Shemar Smith, out of Miami, Florida, on Thursday evening.

The 6-foot-2, 210-pound outside linebacker chose the Beavers over offers from Illinois, Indiana, Louisville, Pitt, Purdue, Syracuse, Texas and others:

The deciding factor for Smith was the feel of the program.

"It was the chemistry, the chemistry with the players and coaches," he said. "That separated me from thinking this college would be better than all the other colleges. There's a lot of positive things."

One of the questions Smith had Thursday was the future of Sitake, who spoke with the defensive standout before a decision was made.

"I'm not really worried about it. If he leaves, at the end of the day, that's where I committed to, that's where I'm going to remain. It was discussed," Smith explained. "Coach Andersen and Telly (Lockette) are there, too. Coach Kalani, he called me on the phone. We talked. He kept it real with me, didn't beat around the bush."

As a senior, Smith was a First-Team All-District 16-5A selection after registering 16 sacks, providing to be a dangerous threat to the quarterback on the edge.

He is a Rivals two-star prospect, but carries additional value in defensive that disguises blitz packages effectively, as his 34 sacks over the past two years ranks among Florida's best.

That nose for disruption didn't happen by accident, as Smith has competed on the football field since a young age.

Now, he is turning that into an education, as well as an on-field opportunity.

"I played football all my life. I was born and raised on football," he said. "I'm going to be the first person in my family to go to college."

-- Andrew Nemec

anemec@oregonian.com

@AndrewNemec