Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Eric Smith () - 1989 NFL Draft Pick #326 by NYG

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Eric Smith (1989 NFL Draft)

Player Profile:

• Name: Eric Smith
• Position: Safety
• College: University of Michigan
• Height: 6'1"
• Weight: 205 lbs

Strengths:

• Excellent size and athleticism for the safety position.
• Strong tackling ability, known for his physical style of play.
• Good ball skills; capable of making plays on the ball and creating turnovers.
• Experience playing in a high-level college program, demonstrating leadership qualities.

Weaknesses:

• Inconsistent in coverage; can struggle against quicker receivers.
• Needs to improve on reading plays and making quicker decisions.
• Injury history that could raise concerns for some teams.

Overall Assessment:

Eric Smith was viewed as a promising safety prospect heading into the 1989 NFL Draft. His combination of size, speed, and tackling ability made him an attractive option for teams looking to bolster their secondary. However, concerns about his coverage skills and past injuries moderated his draft stock. Scouts believed that with the right coaching, he could develop into a reliable starter in the NFL.

Potential Draft Impact:

Teams in need of defensive help, particularly in the secondary, were likely to view Smith as a solid pick in the early to mid-rounds of the draft. If he could address his weaknesses in coverage and stay healthy, he had the potential to become a key contributor on defense.