Fish Smithson


Anthony “Fish” Smithson is an American former professional football player who was a free safety in the National Football League. He played college football for the Kansas Jayhawks and was signed by the Washington Redskins as an undrafted free agent in 2017. He also played for the Baltimore Ravens.

College career

Hartnell

Smithson initially committed to play at Hartnell College out of high school where he played his freshman year.

Kansas

Following his freshman year at Hartnell, he transferred to the University of Kansas. In 2015, he led the nation in solo tackles, which led to him being named second-team All-Big 12. In 2016 he was named first-team All-Big 12.

Professional career

Washington Redskins

After going undrafted in the 2017 NFL draft, Smithson signed with the Washington Redskins as an undrafted free agent. He was waived on September 2, 2017, during roster cutdowns. The following day, he was signed to the Redskins' practice squad. He was elevated to the active roster on December 19, 2017.
On September 1, 2018, Smithson was waived for final roster cuts before the start of the 2018 season.

Arizona Cardinals

On December 19, 2018, Smithson was signed to the Arizona Cardinals practice squad. He was released six days later.

Los Angeles Chargers

On January 3, 2019, Smithson was signed to the Los Angeles Chargers practice squad.

Jacksonville Jaguars

On July 25, 2019, Smithson signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars, but was waived on August 4.

Baltimore Ravens

On August 27, 2019, Smithson signed with the Baltimore Ravens. He was placed on injured reserve on August 31, 2019, and was released on March 18, 2020.

Personal life

Smithson's brother, Antoine "Shaky" Smithson, played wide receiver at the University of Utah and was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Green Bay Packers in 2011 but was shortly released off of injured reserve with an injury settlement. His nickname "Fish" was given to him by his grandmother as a child due to his fear of fish.