Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Allen Smith () - 1966 NFL Draft Pick #300 by DET

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Allen Smith - 1966 NFL Draft

Player Profile:

• Name: Allen Smith
• Position: Defensive Back
• College: University of Southern California

Overview:

Allen Smith was a standout defensive back at USC, known for his exceptional speed and ball-hawking skills. His performances in college showcased his ability to read the game, making him a valuable asset to any NFL team looking to strengthen their secondary.

Strengths:

• Speed: Smith exhibited impressive straight-line speed, allowing him to cover ground quickly and keep up with fast receivers.
• Instincts: His ability to anticipate plays and react quickly made him a playmaker on defense.
• Ball Skills: Adept at intercepting passes, Smith had a knack for finding the football and turning defensive stops into offensive opportunities.
• Versatility: He was capable of playing multiple positions in the secondary, providing flexibility for defensive coordinators.

Areas for Improvement:

• Physicality: While he had speed, there were concerns about his tackling technique and willingness to engage physically with larger receivers.
• Consistency: Smith needed to work on maintaining a high level of performance throughout the entirety of a game.

Draft Projection:

Allen Smith was projected to be selected in the early rounds of the 1966 NFL Draft, with many scouts believing his skills could translate well to the professional level. His combination of speed and instincts made him a desirable prospect for teams looking to bolster their defensive backfield.

Potential Fit:

Teams seeking a dynamic defensive back who could make an immediate impact were particularly interested in Smith. His ability to cover ground quickly and disrupt passing plays could have made him a valuable addition to a team’s defensive strategy.