University of Minnesota Athletics

2026 Football Roster

Mekhai Smith headshot
Jersey Number 22

Mekhai Smith

  • Position:
    DB
  • Ht./Wt.:
    6-2 / 210
  • Hometown:
    Lower Merion, Pa.
  • High School:
    Lower Merion
  • Prev School:
    Lehigh
  • Years in College / At Minnesota:
    3 / 1
  • Class:
    Junior
PRONUNCIATION

OVERVIEW: Enrolled at Minnesota in January 2026 • spent the 2024-25 seasons at Lehigh. 

PREVIOUS SCHOOL: Spent two seasons (2024-25) at Lehigh and had 96 tackles, four interceptions, seven pass breakups, one forced fumble and one fumble recovery • in 2025, played in 13 games and made 56 tackles • had half of a tackle for loss • made four interceptions, broke up seven passes, forced one fumble and recovered one fumble • in 2024, played in all 13 games and made 40 tackles. 

HIGH SCHOOL: Attended Lower Merion High School in Ardmore, Pennsylvania • wore No. 1 for the Aces and was coached by Joe Augustine • named two-time first team all-conference as a defensive back and first team all-conference as a quarterback • team captain • school’s all-time passing leader with 3,642 yards • as a senior in 2023, led team a 7-5 record, which was the program’s first winning record since 1992 • threw for 1,386 yards and 12 touchdowns while rushing for 352 yards and three touchdowns • made 96 tackles, six tackles for loss and broke up seven passes • played baseball and basketball. 

PERSONAL: Son of Jamal and Nikia Smith • has two siblings (Leena and Kariana) • father, Jamal, played college football at Albright College.
Barber & Maroney III Highlights
Thursday, January 29
Coach Fleck Postgame at Rate Bowl
Tuesday, January 06
Cinematic Recap: Gophers Win Ninth Straight Bowl
Friday, January 02
Anthony Smith - Rate Bowl
Monday, December 29