Scouting report: Sean Smith

6’3, 210 pounds | Utah | Cornerback
Strengths: Smith is a big and athletic cornerback who can match up against opponents’ No. 1 receivers and help against the run. Thanks to his large frame, Smith excels at jamming opponents at the line of scrimmage. Great in man coverage. A perfect fit against tall receivers. Has good high-point agility. Solid anticipation skills to make a play on the ball. A former receiver with good hands. Hasn’t really been used in blitz situations but has the tools to excel in this area of the game. He really came on during his junior year and played well in Utah’s biggest games.
Weaknesses: Some consider Smith a free safety prospect because he’s stiff in the hips and has trouble keeping up with quick receivers. When tackling, Smith needs to stay lower to get better leverage against opponents. Struggles some in zone coverage when he has to freelance. Much better in man-to-man. Has only played two years on defense and is still learning the position. Reportedly has an arrogance about him, which could dismay some teams.
Final word: There may be no more intriguing prospect in this year’s draft than Smith. He has only played two years of defense, but looks like a possible star if he continues developing his game. In the Sugar Bowl, Smith easily manhandled super freshman receiver Julio Jones of Alabama. Some are comparing him to Nnamdi Asomugha of the Raiders, which may well turn out to be an apt comparison.
Round projection: 2