PFN Player Profile: QB/LB-DJ Smith-Northgate

Tagged under: District 7, pfn, Player Previews

Peyton Celesti | September 25, 2026

Devontae “DJ” Smith
Northgate High School
Class of 2028
QB/LB 6’2″/225
Twitter/X: @DJSmith2028

What and/or who originally got you into football? 

My dad got me into football when I was really young, and I would say seeing my older brother play football when I was like 4 made me want to play. 

What are your best skill sets on and off the field? What is something you look to improve upon?

I feel like my biggest skill set on and off the field is leading by example and always doing the right thing. My biggest weakness is that I haven’t been as vocal a leader. Being a QB comes with leading and being vocal. If I want to play college ball anywhere, that’s the main thing I need.

What is your favorite play to run on offense and/or defense?

My favorite play is definitely power read. It’s an easy play and gets easy yards. 

Who is the best player you ever lined up against? 

The best player I’ve ever lined up against is Kemon Spell from McKeesport in a 7-on-7 game.

Do you have a favorite play that you made? Favorite memory?

My favorite play I’ve ever made was when I was 8 or 9, playing up for the big team. We were at Quaker Valley, and I was playing LB. The TE ran an out, and I jumped it and took it for 6. My favorite memory is winning the championship against Carlynton in 2018.

What is your favorite game that you’ve watched live or on TV?

My favorite game I’ve seen on TV was Alabama vs. Georgia National Championship. I’m a big fan of the Tide, so when I witnessed Devonta Smith seal the game, I was so happy.

Who is someone you want to be like? 

The person that I would want to be like is Jameis Winston. He spreads positivity on and off the field. He’s the coolest guy to play football.

When you aren’t playing, practicing, or training for football, what is your go-to activity?

My go-to when I’m not training or playing is probably playing on the PS5.

What stadium, HS/college/pro would you love to visit for a game? 

I would love to see an SEC championship game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

Who is your favorite sports star and why?

My favorite sports star is Patrick Mahomes. I remember seeing the Texas Tech vs. Oklahoma game in 2016. That’s when I became a Mahomes fan.

What are the goals for yourself this year and for your team?

My goal is the same as the team’s. I want to make the playoffs this year; we haven’t done it since 2016.