MISSOURI CITY – Ainias Smith bolted from drill to drill, talking, teaching and, most of all, smiling as he orchestrated a family dream.
The Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver, a former Texas A&M and Dulles standout, held a youth football camp and showcase that included a symposium with panel discussions on Name, Image and Likeness compensation, recruiting, media tips and financial literacy.
It was a family affair for Smith as his parents and friends helped him carry out his vision to give young people a boost in Missouri City during a camp at Freedom Center Church.
Smith was joined by several former Aggies, including New England Patriots starting offensive guard Layden Robinson, Las Vegas Raiders running back Isaiah Spiller, San Antonio Brahmas quarterback Kellen Mond, Houston Roughnecks all-league safety Leon O’Neal as well as Eagles defensive end Jalyx Hunt, a Houston Christian alum, and Green Bay Packers offensive lineman Brant Banks, a former Rice and Nebraska player.
“They’ve taken in the knowledge pretty quickly, quicker than I expected actually,” Smith told KPRC 2. “I’m very happy with the results. The boys are getting better, so I’m thankful for sure. I’m thankful for them to come out and give back their knowledge that they have to pass it on to these kids.”
Drafted in the fifth round last year, Smith spent his rookie season getting healthy and in optimal condition after dealing with a stress fracture in his shin. He has made a full recovery and is noticeably leaner as he looks to increase his role in his second NFL season.
“Since last year, I really didn’t have the full offseason, but now I feel real good this year, I’m excited,” said Smith, who caught seven passes for 41 yards and one touchdown in seven games and one start as a rookie with two carries for six yards. “I’m explosive. I’m lighter than I was last year, so I’m excited for sure. I lost a few pounds, for sure.”
The Eagles gather on July 18 in advance of getting their Super Bowl rings after defeating the Kansas City Chiefs in the big game.
“We’re going out there on the 18th,” Smith said. “Man, definitely, I’m blessed, thankful. I’m just happy for the experience and hopefully we’re going to continue to get some more.”
The Eagles have established themselves as a powerhouse in the NFC under the leadership of coach Nick Sirianni and general manager Howie Roseman.
Perhaps there’s a dynasty in the making.
“That’s the goal, yes sir, for sure,” Smith said. “Winning culture, for sure. They set the standard very high. The bar, it’s been set for a while now. When you come in, there’s no games that are able to be played. You’ve gotta get in where you fit in, but you’ve gotta definitely put in that work for sure.”
Catching passes from star quarterback Jalen Hurts is a joy for Smith, who caught 180 career passes for 2,407 yards and 19 touchdowns for the Aggies. He also rushed for 405 yards and four scores and returned two punts for touchdowns.
“Definitely a professional,” Smith said. “When it comes to details, scheduling, all of that, he’s on top of all of that. So, I’m just very happy for the experience.”
As Smith gave instruction to the campers while celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Heavenbound Christian League, Sirriani’s words of wisdom came to mind.
“Yes sir, for sure, he definitely gave me some words,” Smith said. “I preached to these kids a little bit.”
Aaron Wilson is a Texans and NFL reporter for KPRC 2 and click2houston.com
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