The BUST-O-METER is back again to break down our top 15 draft bust risks. The series of articles will look at two prospects per week breaking down why I feel they have a high potential for busting. Many factors played into my ranking including potential draft position. The draft position is very important because if they are selected high than what their production warrants it puts them at a higher likely hood of busting. These articles always bring a ton of feedback and are highly controversial which is what makes them so fun.
NFL Draft BUST-O-METER: #12 Jimmy Smith
For a reference, I like to classify a bust as someone that doesn’t live up to their draft position. This means that if a player is selected #1 overall I expect him to be a dominate player in the league. I also take into consideration what position the player is projected to play in the NFL. For example, if someone is selected in the top 10 and is projected as a rush 3-4 linebacker I expect to see a high sack total. Of course, there are many other factors that are specific for each player so check out the rest of the article after the JUMP.
Also don’t forget to stop by our Scouting Reports page to get an in-depth look at each prospect.
Player: Jimmy Smith- CB- Colorado
BUST-O-METER: 5 out of 10
Projected Draft Range: Mid to Late 1st Round
Thoughts: Jimmy Smith is a very talented player with a ton of potential and abilities. During his time at Colorado, he has proven to be a reliable cornerback with the potential to shut down opposing wide receivers. Smith excels in press coverage possessing the ability to play physical and knock receivers off their routes. The combine gave Smith to opportunity to show case some of his physical abilities. He ran a faster than expected 40 time and showed good fluid hips in position drills.
The biggest concerns right now are surrounding Smith’s character. Smith has made several comments that have drawn red flags centering around his maturity. I feel the character concerns will take their toll on Smith’s stock. However, Smith’s 40 time might overshadow those concerns raising his stock higher than might be warranted. While at Colorado, Smith struggled to consistently come up with interceptions resulting in questions about his ball skills. NFL teams are going to look at his 3 career interceptions and incorporate that into their evaluations.
Overall, I feel that Smith has the talent and skills to exceed in the NFL. However, his good 40 time might raise his stock higher than warranted. When your selecting a cornerback high in the 1st round you want a guy that is going to cover, create turnovers, and stay out of trouble. Questions on whether or not Smith can accomplish all those requirements make him a candidate for busting.
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