Clemson still pursuing LB Rahshaun Smith despite decommitment

In recruiting terminology there is commitment, decommitment and recommitment. Seldom do all three come into play with the same prospect and the same school. But in the case of Clemson and linebackers Rahshaun Smith of IMG Academy in Bradenton, Fla., that might very well be the case. The former Tiger commitment was back at Death Valley last weekend for the Florida State game and left feeling even more strongly about rejoining the Tigers' 2016 class.

"It was definitely a good visit," Smith said. "It's always a good time going to Clemson. There's a lot of love there. You definitely feel like you're at home. The fans know me. The coaches always show love when I go. The game atmosphere was second to none. It was pretty loud the whole game. The defense did a good job of stopping Dalvin Cook. It definitely left a good impression and I could see myself there.”

Smith first committed to Clemson in late March and then decommitted in August because he wanted to take official visits to other schools. He has done that with Oregon and LSU and will go to Auburn for the Iron Bowl in late November. He is scheduled for an official visit to Clemson on Dec. 12.

Despite the decommitment, Smith said the Clemson staff has maintained a positive attitude with him and continue to recruit him as they did prior to the original commitment.

“They have never put too much pressure on me," he said. "One of the main things I like is that they've always supported me in everything I did. When I was committed the first time, they always supported me in my recruitment. When I committed they still supported the same way. Now that I'm decommitted they still support me and encourage me to take my visits. We still talk often. They ask me how my visits are going. They've always been good coaches, and they want what's in my best interest.”

Smith plans to announce his final decision Jan. 2 at the Under Armour Game and then enroll in school in January.

"Everything is still open," said Smith. "My top kind of narrowed down itself to the schools that I'm taking officials to. I'm still open. I'm open to hear what coaches have to say.”

This story was originally published November 12, 2015 at 12:59 PM.