Frank Smith

Frank Smith (born February 21, 1981) is an American professional football coach and former player who is currently the assistant head coach for the Minnesota Vikings of the National Football League (NFL). He has previously been a coach for the Los Angeles Chargers, New Orleans Saints, Chicago Bears, and Miami Dolphins. Prior to entering coaching, Smith played college football as an offensive lineman for Miami (Ohio) from 1999-2003. He was a team captain and three-year starting guard for future star NFL quarterback Ben Roethlisberger.

Coaching career New Orleans Saints In 2010, Smith was hired by the New Orleans Saints as their assistant offensive line coach. During his time with the Saints, Smith supported the offensive staff in game preparation and assisted with the offensive line. From 2010 to 2014, the Saints offensive line allowed just 143 sacks, third fewest in the NFL. Four Saints offensive linemen were named to the Pro Bowl during Smith’s time with the unit: T Jermon Bushrod, G Jahri Evans, G Ben Grubbs, and G Carl Nicks. Evans was named first-team All-Pro by the Associated Press three times (2010–12) and Nicks earned the honor once (2011).

Chicago Bears In 2015, Smith was hired by the Chicago Bears as their tight ends coach. He worked with Zach Miller to achieve his highest career production and helped develop several different young players.

Oakland / Las Vegas Raiders On January 13, 2018, Smith was hired by the Oakland Raiders as their tight ends coach under head coach Jon Gruden. He developed two first time Pro Bowl tight ends, Jared Cook and Darren Waller, during his time under Gruden.

Los Angeles Chargers In 2021, Smith worked as the run game coordinator and offensive line coach for the Chargers. Under Smith, two players earned their first Pro Bowl selections: Corey Linsley at center and Rashawn Slater at left tackle. Slater was the first rookie left tackle in over 10 years to make it to the Pro Bowl.

Miami Dolphins On February 14, 2022, Smith was hired by the Miami Dolphins to serve as the team's offensive coordinator under newly-hired head coach Mike McDaniel.

Minnesota Vikings On February 24, 2026, Smith was officially hired to serve as the assistant head coach for the Minnesota Vikings, under head coach Kevin O'Connell.