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GREG SMITH
6-4/244
Texas Senior
40: 4.75 (estimated)

PROS:

Does a nice job setting the edge as a run blocker and can make the kick out block in space. Gets position, using size well, and can redirect the linebacker inside. Shows some mean streak as a blocker.

CONS:

Slow release off the line as a receiver and will body catch passes. Lacks ideal pop as a run blocker and needs to take better angles. Struggles to adjust in space vs. outside rush in pass protection. Gets overextended and has trouble locking in pass protection.

OVERVIEW:

Smith is used almost exclusively as a blocker for Texas. He has started 15 games over the past three seasons as a reserve tight end and caught 17 passes. He had his best season this past year with 9 catches for 60 yards, and had his career long, a 15-yard reception. He also worked as the team's long snapper on place kicks as a freshman and sophomore.

NFL FORECAST:

Smith projects as a blocking tight end at the next level. He is too llimited as a receiver to ever be considered much of an option there. While I don't know how good a snapper he is, his ability to perform there does give him some added value to contribute on special teams, at least in an emergency role. He has potential as a blocker, but he needs more polish. He's not going to hit the ground running in that realm to think he can immediately fill in as a No. 2, but he can compete and by his second year I think a team could be confident he could man that role ably. But more than likely because of his limited value as a receiver, he'll struggle to move up the depth chart. There are still teams that still use their second tight ends almost purely as blockers, but that number is dwindling. He has a chance to stick with one of those teams, but more than likely he's going to be a journeyman that bounces around the league when teams need a backup that can block, but never really sticks anywhere long term. Unless he can prove himself as a long snapper, do I think he has a chance to play in one place for very long.

ATL FORECAST:

Smith has potential to fulfill a Zinger-like role as a third tight end and tackle in short-yardage. But the Falcons probably would prefer someone with more upside as a receiver, which means he would have trouble sticking long-term. He might give the Falcons one good season as a reserve blocker, but eventually they would move on with a more versatile threat in the passing game.

VALUE:

Because he's a one-dimensional player, Smith isn't worth a draft pick. But some team should bring him to camp and see if he can surprise as a long snapper and push for time as a third tight end.

SKILLS:
1-poor, 2-weak, 3-above average, 4-very good, 5-elite

Speed: 2.5
Hands: 2.0
Blocking: 4.0
Body Control: 2.0
Range: 1.0