PHOENIX – Phoenix Rising FC announced on Monday it had signed right back Collin Smith ahead of the 2025 USL Championship season. The transaction is pending league and federation approval.

Smith joins Rising having spent the past campaign with Rhode Island FC, where he recorded 389 minutes in 18 appearances for the Eastern Conference title winner. The 21-year-old had previously spent the 2023 USL Championship season on loan with Birmingham Legion FC, where he recorded two goals, one assist and 12 chances created in 2,284 minutes of action across 31 appearances for the side.

“Collin is a player [assistant coach] Vikram [Virk] and I had the pleasure of working with in North Texas, and we’re excited to welcome him to Phoenix Rising,” said Rising Head Coach Pa-Modou Kah. “He’s a great person and a talented young player with qualities that will energize our fans from the right-back position. My staff and I look forward to helping him develop and contribute to our championship ambitions.”

A native of Jacksonville, Fla., Smith joined the FC Dallas Academy in 2018. He turned professional with North Texas SC in USL League One in 2020 and recorded 44 appearances for the side across the next two seasons while also signing as a Homegrown Player with FC Dallas in 2021.

“I'm incredibly excited to be joining Phoenix Rising, a club with a rich tradition of success and championship aspirations,” said Smith. “Having the opportunity to reunite with Coach Pa and work alongside such a professional and player-focused staff made this an easy decision. I can't wait to bring my energy, speed, and defensive skills to the team and contribute to our collective goals.”