Not sure if it was an academic issue or just a recruiting decision. ND was "involved" at one point. ND did not take a TE in the class of '16, but got a high 4* in both '15 and '17 at the position (Mack & Kmet). Smith was a 3*, so this board probably wouldn't have wanted him.
Link: https://247sports.com/Recruitment/Irv-Smith-Jr-81617/RecruitInterests/