Firenze Red Lions sign former NFL running back Jerome Smith as running backs coach

The Firenze Red Lions continue to build out their organization, adding former NFL running back Jerome Smith to their coaching staff as running backs coach. Smith brings a rare combination of playing experience at the highest level and a growing coaching resume to Florence.

A standout college career at Syracuse

Smith played four years as a running back at Syracuse University, where he became one of the program’s most reliable weapons. He appeared in 40 career games, rushing for 2,219 yards and 16 touchdowns, and served as team captain in his senior season in 2013. His performances earned him spots on both the Doak Walker and Maxwell Trophy watch lists, highlighting him as one of the top running backs in college football that year.

From the NFL to coaching

After graduating in 2014, Smith signed with the Atlanta Falcons as an undrafted free agent and spent two years in the NFL. When his playing career ended he transitioned into coaching, beginning at Morgan State in 2019 where he spent three seasons as running backs coach and assistant special teams coordinator. He then moved to ASA Brooklyn College before joining the Pittsburgh Steelers as part of the prestigious Bill Walsh Diversity Internship program. Most recently he has been working as a running backs coach at Robert Morris University.

The right man for the Red Lions‘ backfield

With Simon Olaifa among the running backs on the Red Lions‘ roster, Smith steps into a role where his experience as both a player and coach will be invaluable. His firsthand knowledge of what it takes to perform at the highest level, combined with his coaching development across multiple programs, makes him an excellent addition to the Firenze Red Lions‘ staff ahead of their debut season in 2026.