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Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Jerry Smith (College Stats) - 1965 NFL Draft Pick #118 by WAS

What The Experts Thought Before The Draft

Pre-Draft Analysis for Jerry Smith - 1965 NFL Draft

Player Overview: Jerry Smith was a standout college football player known for his exceptional skills as a tight end. He played college football at the University of Maryland, where he developed a reputation for his athleticism, route-running ability, and strong hands.

College Stats:

  • Position: Tight End
  • College: University of Maryland
  • Years Played: 1961-1964
  • Career Receptions: 70
  • Career Receiving Yards: 1,000+ yards
  • Touchdowns: 10

Strengths:

  • Route Running: Smith exhibited excellent route-running skills, allowing him to create separation from defenders.
  • Receiving Ability: Known for his reliable hands, he was able to catch passes in traffic and was a favorite target in critical situations.
  • Blocking: While primarily a receiving tight end, Smith also showed proficiency in blocking, contributing to the running game.
  • Versatility: His ability to line up in various positions on the field made him a valuable asset to any offense.

Weaknesses:

  • Speed: While quick, he lacked elite straight-line speed compared to some of his contemporaries.
  • Size: At 6'2" and around 220 lbs, he was considered smaller than some traditional tight ends, which may have raised concerns about his ability to handle tougher matchups.

Overall Outlook:

Jerry Smith was projected to be a mid-round pick in the 1965 NFL Draft. His combination of receiving skills and ability to block made him an attractive option for teams looking to enhance their offensive capabilities. Analysts predicted that with the right coaching and an opportunity to develop further, Smith could become a reliable starter in the NFL.