Nicholas "Happy" Smith, a defensive lineman for the University of Kentucky, has passed away at the age of 20. He is survived by his parents and six siblings.
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"We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our beloved teammate Nic Smith," the University of Kentucky said in a statement. "We extend our thoughts and prayers to Nic's family, friends and the members of our program."
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According to the Associated Press, a school spokesperson said that the University of Kentucky Police Department received a phone call on Monday at approximately 10 a.m. about a student being found dead in residence hall. The spokesperson added that an investigation did not indicate foul play played a role in Smith's death.
"Today our hearts are broken," Kentucky coach Will Stein said in a statement. "Our thoughts and prayers are with Nic's family, friends, teammates and everyone who knew and loved him.
"This is a tremendous loss for our program and university community. We will continue to support one another and honor his memory."
We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our beloved teammate Nic Smith. We extend our thoughts and prayers to Nic's family, friends and the members of our program. pic.twitter.com/MojbQfBMme
— Kentucky Football (@UKFootball) June 8, 2026
A two-sport athlete at Walnut Grove High School in Georgia, Smith redshirted last season after being listed as a three-star recruit by Rivals. He posted 40 tackles, 11.0 tackles for loss, two sacks, and 16 quarterback hurries as a senior before choosing Kentucky over other options in Georgia Tech and Georgia Southern.
Rivals listed Smith as more of a developmental prospect for the team in its spring review posted in March.
"Smith owns a unique bundle of physical traits that include size, length, and a frame that should hold good weight," analyst Adam Luckett wrote while previewing the defensive line. "Multi-positional potential but some more development could be needed."
The university said that he was also a part of the Community Leadership and Development program in the Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food, and Environment.
