Grade
?- 6'4" Height
- 332LBS. Weight
Overview
Signed with Alabama as the top prep offensive lineman in the country and proved well worth the hype. Smith started every game of his career except the January 2009 Sugar Bowl (suspension), and developed into an elite pro prospect. A massive presence with rare athleticism, Smith was arguably the most valuable player in Alabama's rise this season, and his absence was obvious in the Tide's loss to Utah in the Sugar Bowl. After becoming only the seventh true freshman in school history to start the opening game of his career, Smith quickly developed into a star, voted as a true sophomore as the co-recipient (along with Arkansas center Jonathan Luigs) of the 2008 Jacobs Blocking Trophy, presented annually by the SEC coaches to the best blocker in the conference. A consensus All-American voted the Outland Trophy winner, Smith had a spectacular junior campaign until being suspended for the Tide's Sugar Bowl date with Utah for improper dealings with a sports agent. While scouts are sure to question Smith's priorities, his play is without question. A dominant run blocker and surprisingly agile pass protector, Smith is among the elite talents in the draft and a likely top-five selection. Had an arm span of 35 3/8 inches and a hand span of 9 3/4 inches at the combine.
Analysis
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| Grade | Title | Draft (Round) | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 96-100 | Future Hall of Famer | Top Pick | A once-in-a-generation type prospect who could change how his position is played |
| 85-95 | Immediate Starter | 1st | An impact player with the ability/intangibles to become a Pro Bowl player. Expect to start immediately except in a unique situation (i.e. behind a veteran starter). |
| 70-84 | Eventual Starter | 2nd-3rd | A quality player who will contribute to the team early on and is expected to develop into a starter. A reliable player who brings value to the position. |
| 50-69 | Draftable Player | 4th-7th | A prospect with the ability to make team as a backup/role player. Needs to be a special teams contributor at applicable positions. Players in the high range of this category might have long-term potential. |
| 20-49 | Free Agent | UDFA | A player with solid measurables, intangibles, college achievements, or a developing skill that warrants an opportunity in an NFL camp. In the right situation, he could earn a place on a 53-man roster, but most likely will be a practice squad player or a camp body. |
