Skip to content

Scouting Profile: Jaylon Smith among draft's elite, but injury may cause dramatic fall

Norm Hall / Getty Images Sport / Getty

Get an in-depth look at the top prospects in this year's draft class leading up to the NFL draft, which takes place from April 28-30 in Chicago.

Jaylon Smith

Position: LB
School: Notre Dame
College Experience: Junior
Height: 6-2
Weight: 235 lbs.
Age: 20

NFL player comparison: Derrick Johnson

There are few players who share the same rare combination of athleticism, range, and playmaking ability that Jaylon Smith possesses, but Derrick Johnson is one of them. Earlier in his career, Johnson not only had the speed to defend sideline to sideline, but also the athleticism to cover backs and tight ends all over the field, just as Smith is capable of. Johnson is a more instinctual run defender than Smith, but the young linebacker has the potential to grow in that area and become a force on all three downs.

Draft Projection: Round 2-undrafted (depending on how teams view long-term health)

Strengths

  • An elite level athlete at his position.
  • Fluid mover in space. Has the range, agility, and speed to cover all over the field.
  • High motor, versatility means he can play every down.
  • Strong tackler, consistently wraps up runners and drives them backwards.
  • Ideal size and strength, which allows him to consistently engage and shed blockers in run defense.
  • Shows flashes of being a threatening pass-rusher, although given limited opportunities.
  • Top-notch sideline-to-sideline speed.

Weaknesses

  • Potential nerve damage after left knee injury could jeopardize career, or at the very least, rob Smith of his rookie year.
  • Inconsistent against the run. Can over-pursue and is vulnerable to cut backs.
  • Can sometimes be slow to diagnose the direction of the run, causing him to be out of position.

Pro Day Results

Due to his significant knee injury, Smith was unable to participate at any events during the combine, and only the bench press at Notre Dame's pro day.

Event Result
40-yard Dash N/A
Bench Press 24 reps
Vertical Jump N/A
Broad Jump N/A
3-Cone Drill N/A
20-yard Shuttle N/A

Daily Newsletter

Get the latest trending sports news daily in your inbox