Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Larry Smiley () - 1973 NFL Draft Pick #402 by MIN


What The Experts Thought Before The Draft

Pre-Draft Analysis for Larry Smiley (1973 NFL Draft)

Player Profile:

  • Name: Larry Smiley
  • Position: Wide Receiver
  • College: University of Southern California (USC)

Overview:

Larry Smiley had a standout career at USC, showcasing his skills as a reliable wide receiver with excellent hands and route-running ability. He was known for his speed and agility, making him a deep threat on the field.

Strengths:

  • Speed: Smiley possesses the quickness to separate from defenders and stretch the field vertically.
  • Route Running: His ability to run precise routes gives quarterbacks confidence in his reliability as a target.
  • Hands: He demonstrated strong catching ability, often making difficult catches in traffic.

Weaknesses:

  • Size: At 5'11" and 180 pounds, he may be considered undersized for the NFL, which could limit his effectiveness against larger cornerbacks.
  • Blocking: Needs improvement in his blocking skills to be an all-around contributor on offense.

Projected Draft Round: Late 2nd to early 3rd round

Conclusion:

Larry Smiley is expected to be a valuable asset for any NFL team looking for a dynamic wide receiver. His speed and route-running ability make him a potential game-changer, but his size may raise concerns about his ability to handle the physicality of the NFL. Teams will likely evaluate his potential to contribute immediately as a slot receiver or a special teams player.