One of Tampa's biggest needs was cornerback and they've addressed it again with one of the "sleepers" in this draft. Smith is a quicker than fast cover corner with flashy ball skills. With some of their current CBs nearing contract years, Smith has long-term starting potential.
-Mark Dulgerian
5'11" Height
30 1/2" Arm Length
189LBS. Weight
8 7/8" Hands
Overview
Major schools missed on this guy. The Maryland Big School All-State honorable mention pick has been a fixture in the NCCU secondary since arriving on campus, starting at least eight games each season. He tied for the FCS lead with four fumble recoveries as a freshman, while also intercepting three pases and breaking up five others. Smith had two interceptions, three pass breakups as a sophomore, recovering three more fumbles. Although he lacked a pick as a junior, he led the team with seven breakups in 2014. He starred as a senior for the Eagles, garnering second team All-MEAC honors as a cornerback (two INT, nine PBU) and returner (28.1 yards per kick return, one touchdown). Smith also accomplished something you dont hear very often; he set the team career record for solo tackles with 168 as a cornerback.
Analysis
Strengths
Gets a solid pop in for his initial chuck at the line of scrimmage. Very smooth in his pedal and turn and does a nice job of reading a receiver's "tells" within his route. Quality footwork for mirror and match and sticks to the hip of his man. Plays with good balls skills and consistently turns to find the ball from man. In zone, slides according to quarterback's eyes restricting passing Windows. Works through combo routes and comes out on right side. Not big and strong, but isnt soft either.
Weaknesses
Needs advanced instincts and to take coverage chances because closing burst is just marginal. Average long speed in the chase. Can be stacked and big-boyed on vertical routes creating difficulties playing the ball. Small hands at the end of his short arms. Acceleration from change of direction is below average. Skinny and will always be challenged by size. Ankle-biter as a tackler.
Draft Projection
Rounds 4 or 5
NFL Comparison
Bill Bentley
Bottom Line
A little small for the perimeter, but worth a consideration from the slot. Smith has cover skills and the short area footwork to challenge for a roster spot matching up against full-time slot receivers. Smith doesn't have great size and doesn't appear to have the speed or twitch that teams look for, but his tape shows a player with enough skill to warrant a look.
