PAWTUCKET, R.I. – Rhode Island FC announced on Friday it had signed defender Collin Smith for the 2024 USL Championship season. Smith will be available for selection in RIFC’s contest against the Tampa Bay Rowdies on Saturday night at Al Lang Stadium.

The 20-year-old former FC Dallas Homegrown signing has competed previously in the USL Championship, spending the 2023 season on loan with Birmingham Legion FC. Smith recorded two goals, one assist and 12 chances created in 31 appearances for Birmingham as the side reached the Eastern Conference Semifinals of the 2023 USL Championship Playoffs.

“Collin is a proven player at the USL Championship level,” said Rhode Island FC Head Coach Khano Smith. “His athleticism, speed and composure on the ball makes him a great addition to our back line. We’re excited to have him and know that he will be able to contribute immediately.”

Smith began the 2024 season with MLS NEXT Pro side New England Revolution II, where he started and played the full 90 minutes in the club’s season opener against Philadelphia Union II. Prior to his time with Legion FC, he had previously competed for North Texas SC in both USL League One and MLS NEXT Pro where he became the all-time appearance leader for the club, playing in 66 matches across three seasons. He scored three goals and six assists in that time, including a five-assist season in his last year with the club in 2022, its first in MLS NEXT Pro.