RAV KCC ATL HOU DEN NWE LVR CRD MIN SDG CLE CIN LV BOS TB STL NO WSH ARI PHO PIT CAR JAC MIA CHI CLV CHR W 40x40 ARZ LA TBB RAI RAV KCC ATL HOU DEN NWE LVR CRD MIN SDG CLE CIN LV BOS TB STL NO WSH ARI PHO PIT CAR JAC MIA CHI CLV CHR W 40x40 ARZ LA TBB RAI

Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

John Smith () - 1979 NFL Draft Pick #261 by CLE

What The Experts Thought Before The Draft

Pre-Draft Analysis: John Smith (1979 NFL Draft)

Player Overview:

John Smith, a standout kicker from UCLA, emerged as one of the top prospects leading into the 1979 NFL Draft. Known for his accuracy and strong leg, Smith was a crucial component of UCLA's special teams and had garnered significant attention from NFL scouts.

Strengths:
  • Accuracy: Smith boasted an impressive field goal percentage during his college career, often making critical kicks under pressure.
  • Leg Strength: Possessing the ability to kick from long distances, he was a reliable option for long field goals.
  • Experience: With multiple seasons as a starter, Smith had a wealth of experience in high-pressure situations.
  • Versatility: Besides field goals, Smith was also proficient in kickoffs, providing additional value to teams needing a dual-threat kicker.
Concerns:
  • Consistency: While generally accurate, there were moments of inconsistency that raised questions about his reliability in crucial games.
  • Pro-Level Transition: Transitioning from college to the NFL can be challenging for kickers; critics wondered if he could handle the pressure of professional play.
Projected Draft Position:

John Smith was projected to be selected in the early rounds of the 1979 NFL Draft, with many teams seeing him as a potential franchise kicker. His skills were highly valued, particularly by teams looking to bolster their special teams units.

Conclusion:

As the draft approached, John Smith's name was frequently mentioned among the top kicking prospects. His combination of accuracy, leg strength, and experience made him a coveted player, and many believed he would make an immediate impact at the professional level.