Former College, NFL Coach Kenan Smith 'Leads Through Action' At D1 West Nashville | D1 Daily
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Kenan Smith's football career took him across the United States.
Before he became a popular coach at D1 West Nashville, Kenan built his resumé by:
• Mentoring two first team all-conference selections at Butler University in Indianapolis.
• Coaching receivers for the Los Angeles Rams
• Interning with the Miami Dolphins
• Leading Southern Utah to the 11th-best passing offense in the FCS
• Coaching at Tennessee State University as the Passing Game Coordinator
Now, Smith helps train athletes at D1 West Nashville who strive to play at the next level. D1 Daily caught up with Smith to find out more about his journey:
1. You played WR at Sacramento State. How did training play a role in you becoming an all-conference receiver?
I’ve always been driven by a desire to grow and become the best version of myself. From early on at Sac, I made it a point to be around guys (primarily upper classmen) who pushed themselves and brought that same energy out of me. Their work ethic inspired me to compete harder, stay longer after practice, put in extra hours in the weight room, and learn every position I could. I didn’t need to be the loudest in the room; I wanted my effort, discipline, and performance to speak for me. That’s who I’ve always tried to be: someone who leads through action.
2. You’ve been a part of a lot of different football programs. What was the biggest lesson you learned that you can apply to D1?
No matter where someone is in their journey, my goal has always been the same: to motivate, encourage, and inspire. I know what it feels like to want to get better, to show up day after day trying to grow. Whether it's on the field or in the gym, I see people putting in the effort, and I just want to be someone who helps them reach their potential. It means a lot to me to be part of that process and to support others in chasing their goals.
3. What do you see as the major differences between collegiate and NFL training?
The primary differences lie in nutrition and the level of personal accountability. In the NFL, guys fully understand that maintaining peak physical condition is a fundamental part of their job. While both groups have a strong work ethic and train extremely hard, professional players approach it with the mindset and discipline of a full-time career because it’s their actual job.
4. How did you find yourself at D1 Training?
When I first moved to Nashville four years ago, I was coaching football at Tennessee State University. After my time at TSU came to an end, the owner, Joe Stanford, and Annie Olivo, the general manager, reached out to me about the possibility of coaching at West Nashville. At that point, I was still trying to stay connected to the game, but God had other plans and He led me down a path I never expected, but truly needed. I’ll always be grateful to Joe and Annie for believing in me and opening that door. Taking that opportunity was one of the best decisions I’ve made that completely changed the direction of my life.
5. What are your goals as a coach for D1 training with your clients?
Every client I work with has their own unique goals whether it’s getting faster, building strength, hitting that first unassisted pull-up, or simply feeling healthier and more confident. For me, it’s about more than just the physical progress. I show up each day with a positive attitude, a smile, and a genuine desire to connect. I want to know what’s going on in their lives, the good and the bad, because I believe the gym should be a place where they feel safe to let go and just be themselves. I’m not just here to coach; I’m here to support, encourage, and build real relationships that go beyond the workout.
6. Do you have a favorite D1 training story?
Honestly, I probably have a favorite story about every single person I’ve had the chance to work with, it’s hard to choose just one because each connection has meant so much to me. But one moment that really stands out happened about a year ago when I completely ruptured my patellar tendon attempting a 63” box jump. It was my first major surgery after years of playing sports, and it was tough. But what got me through it was the incredible support from the West Nashville community. They showed up for me in ways I never expected. It truly felt like family and that kind of love and encouragement is something I’ll carry with me forever.
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D1 Daily is produced by Dom Bonvissuto & Ty Wellemeyer
