Jonnu Smith and Richard Leonard looking for an Encore Season

Peter Holland Jr./ Contributing Writer

It’s no secret that the Panthers are confident this year now that the majority of starters are back, including their top players on offense and defense – starting cornerback Richard Leonard and starting tight end Jonnu Smith.

Leonard had a breakout year in his junior year, finishing the season with 40 tackles (32 solo), five interceptions (two for a touchdown), which ranked him No. 2 in Conference USA and No. 18 nationally. He was selected first team all conference as a defensive back and return man.

C-USA predicted him to be defensive player of the year this season and is on the Jim Thorpe watch list for best defensive back.  To top all that, he just graduated with a degree in sports management and is also a proud father.

So what’s next for Leonard and what do we expect from this season? Leonard is pumped up for this season that he’s been counting down the days until Thursday, Sept. 3 – their first game against University of Central Florida. Being the heart and soul of the team while balancing being a father could prove to be a challenge for the Miami native.

“I just focus on the task at hand. When I’m on the field, I focus on my teammates, when I’m at home, I focus on my son and my family. Just trying to keep it one day at a time, take it easy, and not putting too much on my plate,” Leonard said.

Leonard, known for his press coverage skills, tries to imitate current NFL corners like Darrelle Revis, Joe Haden, Richard Sherman and Tyrann Mathieu.

When it comes to play making decisions, Leonard prefers the play that will pump up the crowd more.

“I love making pick 6 because I want to spark the crowd and change the game around with a pick 6,” Leonard said.

FIU’s defense was ranked 35 overall in defense and number 2 nationally in creating turnovers.

“That’s all we focus on right now, getting the ball out,” Leonard said. “When we do a tackling circuit, we focus on getting the ball out.”

Smith made his mark last season as a sophomore. He started all 12 games finishing last season with 61 catches for 710 yards and eight touchdowns. He broke T.Y. Hilton’s record for most touchdowns. He also set a school record for most catches and receiving yards for tight ends.

He was selected All-American honorable mentioned from both CBSSports.com and SportsIllustrated.com. He was selected first team All C-USA and is on the John Mackey award watch list for best tight ends.

Right now, Smith is focused on leading his team and getting more wins.

“Everyone’s mind is in the same place, everybody has the same mind set and that’s just to win games. We all have a good attitude on the field, in the weight room, film room, even classroom. Everybody is being held accountable, and that’s what we are striving for.” Smith said. “I just want to put this team in the best situation to win. If the opportunity is given to me I’ll take advantage of it and that’s what I’m continuing to do.”

Off the field, Smith takes pride in giving back to his community. He is on the Wueffel watch list this season for best in community service. Smith visits police departments, elementary schools, and children’s hospital in his spare time.

“We do a great job with community service, we play a big part in our community in order to support us we must support them.”Smith said.

Smith is looking forward for this season, which is around the corner, and he sees different team than last year.

“A lot of our production is back and the team is going to be more explosive. Everybody knows what’s going on and the young guys are picking it up and that’s our advantage.” Smith said.