Jacksonville Jaguars defensive end Dawuane Smoot (91) during the second half of an NFL football game against the Detroit Lions, Sunday, Dec. 4, 2022, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Duane Burleson)

Smoot attended the University of Illinois, where he played college football for the Fighting Illini. During his time at Illinois, he earned a reputation as a fierce pass rusher and a disruptive force on the defensive line. In his senior year, Smoot recorded 56 tackles and five sacks, showcasing his ability to create havoc in opposing backfields.