Justin Smith, a native of Leesburg, Virginia, enters his fifth season as Tight Ends Coach and third season coaching the Fullbacks at Virginia Union University in 2026. A former Panther student-athlete and team captain, Smith has been an important part of the program’s championship run and continued success under Head Coach Dr. Alvin Parker.
During Smith’s tenure on the coaching staff, Virginia Union has developed into one of the premier programs in NCAA Division II football. The Panthers have earned four consecutive NCAA Division II Playoff appearances, made three consecutive CIAA Championship Game appearances, and captured back-to-back CIAA Championships in 2023 and 2024. Smith was also part of the 2024 staff that helped VUU advance to the Elite Eight of the NCAA Division II Playoffs, the deepest postseason run in program history.
Smith has helped develop a productive and versatile tight end group that has played an important role in both the Panthers’ rushing and passing attacks. Throughout his coaching career, he has helped develop three All-CIAA tight ends, including Kalen Carver, who earned All-CIAA honors in 2022, 2023, and 2024. Smith emphasizes physicality, fundamentals, accountability, and versatility while challenging his players to perform at a championship level each week.
His work with the tight ends and fullbacks has contributed to some of the most productive offenses in program history. The position groups have been instrumental in the Panthers’ ability to establish a dominant rushing attack, protect the quarterback, and create opportunities in the passing game while helping VUU consistently rank among the CIAA’s top offensive programs.
Before joining the coaching staff, Smith played left guard at Virginia Union from 2018–2020. During his playing career, he served as a team captain and earned All-CIAA honors as an offensive lineman during his senior season. His experience as a former Panther gives him a unique ability to connect with current student-athletes and reinforce the expectations, tradition, and culture of Virginia Union Football.
Smith earned a Bachelor of Science in Mass Communication, graduating Magna Cum Laude, and a Master of Science in Hospitality Management, both from Virginia Union University. As both an alumnus and coach, Smith continues to play an important role in developing student-athletes and contributing to the championship standard established within the Virginia Union football program.
