OSU Defensive End Endures 3 Heart Surgeries, Now Cleared to Play

Walk-on freshman defensive end Cade Smith from Pleasanton, Texas, has endured three heart surgeries this offseason. And following his most recent surgery, he announced via twitter that he has been cleared to play, despite a doctor telling him otherwise just weeks ago. Here’s what he posted to his twitter account on Wednesday:

After three heart surgeries and the wildest ride of my life…I’m finally cleared! It’s been a bumpy road to start my college football career, but God helped me on every bit of it! From a doctor saying I’ll never play again a couple weeks ago, to returning next week. Can’t wait to put the pads back on, and thank you so much for the prayers! Love the OSU family!

Walking with God!?? #NeverGiveUp pic.twitter.com/kuA2whNG7Q

— Cade Smith (@5cade) August 10, 2016

Following a visit to Stillwater last year with his twin brother Zach (also an OSU football player),  Cade told PFB that, “I took an unofficial visit to Stillwater and just fell in love.” Adding later that “There was just something about Stillwater that no other place in the nation could compare to. I felt it was the best fit for myself and my brother. I’m very happy with my decision and don’t have any second thoughts.”

Cade is listed as a 6-4, 230-lb. freshman on the okstate.com online roster and as he noted above, is returning next week. Pretty cool and unlikely story about a Cowboy getting another chance to saddle back up.