Former South Carolina safety D.J. Smith has had both of his legs amputated following a medical emergency, according to a report from al.com. No details have been released about what caused the emergency, and a fundraiser launched to help Smith and his family has already drawn nearly $40,000 in donations.
Smith, who played safety and defensive back for the Gamecocks from 2014 through 2017, is now working as an electrician at Thorne Electric in Dothan, Alabama, according to the GoFundMe page cited by al.com. The page describes his family as facing an incredibly difficult and uncertain time, and as of Tuesday evening, nearly $40,000 had been raised toward their needs.
Per Smith's Instagram, as reported by al.com, the donations are intended to cover his medical expenses, prosthetics, rehabilitation and other essential needs. The GoFundMe page also describes Smith as a hardworking young man with a passion for life, fitness and family, according to al.com's report. Beyond those details, no information has been made public about the medical emergency itself, including when it occurred.
A Four-Year Career Defined by Steady Growth
Smith's football career at South Carolina tracked a clear upward arc. As a freshman in 2014, he appeared in all 12 games and made one start, according to his player profile on gamecocksonline.com. The following season, in 2015, he again played in all 12 games, primarily contributing on special teams.
By 2016, Smith had become a defensive mainstay. He played in every game that season, made 10 starts, and led the Gamecocks with 80 tackles, the university's athletics site notes, adding three tackles for loss. In his senior season in 2017, he started all 12 games, recorded 50 tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss, and four pass breakups.
Career Totals Reflect a Reliable Defensive Presence
Across his four seasons in Columbia, Smith appeared in 49 career games and made 24 starts. He finished his South Carolina career with 163 tackles, one interception and two fumble recoveries, per his gamecocksonline.com profile. Those numbers reflect a player who steadily earned a larger role in the Gamecocks' defense each year he was on campus.
The circumstances surrounding Smith's medical emergency remain unknown, and al.com's report did not identify a hospital or provide any update on his current condition. What is clear is that a fundraiser for his family has gained traction quickly, nearing $40,000 as of Tuesday evening, with donations earmarked specifically for his medical expenses, prosthetics and rehabilitation going forward.
