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Photo of DeAngelo Smith
Grade
?
  • 4.57 SEC
    Top Performer
  • 17 REPS
    Top Performer
  • 31.5 INCH
    Top Performer
  • 109.0 INCH
    Top Performer
  • 7.29 SEC
    Top Performer
  • 4.36 SEC
    Top Performer
  • 5'11" Height
  • 194LBS. Weight

Overview

Cincinnati head coach Brian Kelly had one of the best cornerback duos in the country in Smith and Mike Mickens. Smith shared the national lead with eight interceptions in 2007, eventually forcing quarterback to re-consider throwing away from the more heralded Mickens. Followed it up with another solid season as a senior, racking up 68 tackles, two interceptions and 10 pass breakups. NFL defenses relying on zone schemes see him as a good fit.

Analysis

Strengths

Positives: Aggressive, adequately-sized corner with long arms and confidence. ... Stays low in his pedal and flips his hips open well. ... Good hands for the interception when closing forward on the ball. ... Attacks quick screens behind the line of scrimmage, will throw his body into the tackle. ... Has played some free safety when needed and also returned kicks. ... Works hard to improve his game. Negatives: Fits best in a zone system where he can see the play in front of him and close on the ball. ... Plays near the line at times but does not get his hands on receivers. ... Gambles to get to the ball. ... Only adequate straight-line speed. ... Has trouble adjusting to the ball in the air and making the interceptions when moving backward. ... Has a tough time getting off wide receiver's blocks due to his lack of size and upper-body strength. ... Gets turned around easily. ... Lacks the suddenness to handle quick slot receivers. ... Not a physical tackler. ... Whiffs on attempts to cut tackle because he ducks his head. ... Questionable ball security, decision-making and speed as a punt returner.
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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.
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