2016 NFL Draft Big Board: December Update
By Jon Dove
Oct 10, 2015; South Bend, IN, USA; Navy Midshipmen quarterback Keenan Reynolds (19) is tackled by Notre Dame Fighting Irish linebacker Jaylon Smith (9) in the third quarter at Notre Dame Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Cashore-USA TODAY Sports
3. Jaylon Smith, LB, Notre Dame
Notre Dame’s Jaylon Smith plays like he’s been shot out of a cannon. He’s easily one of the most explosive players eligible for the 2016 NFL Draft and this includes the offensive side of the ball. Every time I’ve watched Notre Dame’s defense Smith was the first player to jump off the screen.
He uses his athleticism and quickness to make plays from sideline to sideline. Smith trusts his reads and doesn’t hesitate to attack. This leads to a lot of tackles at or behind the line of scrimmage. His tenacity is also an important aspect to his game as he’s always in pursuit of the ball and wants to make impact plays.
What separates Smith from other linebacker prospects is his ability to hold up in coverage. He’s a true four-down linebacker who stays on the field in passing situations and can contribute on special teams.
Where Smith lands in the draft will depend heavily on team needs. This is mainly because of position value as inside linebackers aren’t seen in the same light as pass rushers and quarterbacks. However, I have a hard time seeing Smith slip out of the top-10.
He’d look great in a Dallas Cowboys uniform manning the middle of Rod Marinelli’s cover-2 defense.
Next: No. 4 Robert Nkemdiche