RNRTOP100 Player Evaluation: Tarus “T3” Smith III
Class of 2036 | QB/OLB | Bay Area Hawks (FL) | 8U
Height: 4’0” | Weight: 55 lbs
Instagram: @t3smitty
Tarus “T3” Smith III is living proof that big things come in small packages. A Class of 2036 athlete out of Tampa, Florida, Smith has already made a name for himself as a dynamic playmaker for the Bay Area Hawks. We first saw him at our Tampa combine, where he didn’t just compete—he stood out against players much bigger and older than him. His confidence, skill set, and ability to rise to any challenge immediately caught our attention, and his game film has only reinforced our belief that he’s a special young talent.
As a quarterback, Smith utilizes his compact frame as an advantage, often slipping through defenders’ vision before bursting into the open field. His agility and quick-twitch reflexes allow him to maneuver out of tight spots, creating big plays from seemingly broken situations. Once he’s in the open field, his elite speed takes over, making him a nightmare for defenses. His background in track and field is evident—when he finds a crease, it’s usually “kiss the baby” as he takes it to the house.
On the defensive side, Smith plays with relentless aggression at outside linebacker. Despite his size, he’s fearless when taking on bigger opponents, using his speed and low center of gravity to his advantage. His wrestling background has clearly sharpened his ability to tackle and fight through contact, making him a disruptive force on the edge. His competitive nature shines through in every aspect of his game, whether it’s football, wrestling, or any other challenge he takes on.
Right now, Smith stands at 4’0” and 55 pounds—not the biggest player on the field, but his heart, athleticism, and will to win make up for any size disadvantage. With his father having good size, a growth spurt is likely on the horizon, which will only add to his already impressive skill set. His dedication to training is clear, and as he continues to develop, he’s on track to be one of the top athletes in the Tampa area for years to come.
Keep your eyes on T3—he’s a competitor through and through, and his journey is just getting started.
