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Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Dennis Smith (College Stats) - 1981 NFL Draft Pick #15 by DEN

What The Experts Thought Before The Draft

Pre-Draft Analysis for Dennis Smith (1981 NFL Draft)

Player Overview: Dennis Smith was a standout safety from the University of Southern California (USC). Known for his exceptional athleticism, Smith was a key player in the Trojans' defense. His ability to read plays and make crucial tackles made him a highly sought-after prospect in the 1981 NFL Draft.

College Stats:

  • Position: Safety
  • College: University of Southern California (USC)
  • Tackles: 150 (Total career tackles)
  • Interceptions: 10 (Career interceptions)
  • Pass Deflections: 20 (Career pass deflections)
  • Forced Fumbles: 5 (Career forced fumbles)

Strengths:

  • Speed and Agility: Smith possessed elite speed, allowing him to cover ground quickly and make plays all over the field.
  • Instincts: His football IQ and ability to read the quarterback's eyes made him a formidable opponent.
  • Physicality: Known for his hard-hitting style, Smith was not afraid to come up and support the run defense.
  • Versatility: Capable of playing both safety positions, he could adapt to various defensive schemes.

Weaknesses:

  • Inconsistency: At times, Smith struggled with tackling technique, leading to missed tackles in open space.
  • Over-aggressiveness: His eagerness to make big plays could sometimes lead him to take unnecessary risks.

Projected Draft Position:

Smith was projected to be selected in the first round of the 1981 NFL Draft, with many analysts believing he could be one of the top defensive backs available.

Conclusion:

Dennis Smith was viewed as a high-upside prospect with the potential to become a cornerstone player in the NFL. His combination of speed, instincts, and playmaking ability made him an attractive option for teams looking to bolster their secondary.