Fuller is a long press corner with NFL-caliber size and strength. He’s capable of delaying and redirecting the release but a lack of make-up speed creates problems when he gets out of the gate poorly against speed in man coverage. Fuller might need the scheme to do some of the cover work for him. Cover 2 and deep-zone coverages allow for the best use of Fuller’s size and length, while minimizing pattern-matching in space. If he can become a more dedicated tackler, a conversion to safety could be a consideration.
Smith’s instincts and production work in his favor, but a lack of length and sustained speed could raise questions. He mirrors well and can turn/run from press, but he struggles with control and timing in off-man transitions. He anticipates well when playing with his eyes forward and has an adequate burst to close. However, short arms will require tighter coverage to bring that ball production to the pros. Smith needs to prove himself a reliable tackler in run support and a capable man matchup option against NFL speed whether he’s aligned outside or inside at nickelback.
