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Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Eric Smith () - 1978 NFL Draft Pick #145 by BUF

What The Experts Thought Before The Draft

Pre-Draft Analysis for Eric Smith - 1978 NFL Draft

Eric Smith, a standout player from the University of Michigan, was highly regarded leading up to the 1978 NFL Draft. Here are some key points from the pre-draft analysis:

  • Position: Defensive Back
  • College: University of Michigan
  • Height/Weight: 6'1", 190 lbs

Strengths

  • Versatile Skills: Smith demonstrated the ability to play both cornerback and safety, showcasing his adaptability on the field.
  • Strong Tackler: Known for his physical style of play, he was effective in making tackles and stopping the run.
  • Ball Skills: He had a knack for intercepting passes, contributing to his team’s defensive success.
  • Intelligence: His football IQ allowed him to read plays effectively, making smart decisions during games.

Weaknesses

  • Speed Concerns: While he had decent speed, there were questions about whether he could keep up with faster receivers at the professional level.
  • Injury History: There were some concerns regarding his injury history, which could affect his durability in the NFL.

Overall Assessment

Eric Smith was projected to be a valuable asset for any NFL team looking to bolster its secondary. His combination of size, tackling ability, and football intelligence made him a desirable prospect. However, teams had to weigh his speed and injury concerns against his potential impact on the field.