Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Akili Smith (Oregon) - 1999 NFL Draft Pick #3 by CIN

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Pre-Draft Analysis: Akili Smith (Oregon)

Overview: Akili Smith was one of the most talked-about quarterbacks leading into the 1999 NFL Draft. After a standout season at the University of Oregon, where he showcased a blend of athleticism, arm strength, and playmaking ability, he emerged as a top prospect. Scouts were intrigued by his potential and skill set, but concerns about his experience and consistency lingered.

• College Performance:
  • Smith played only one full season as a starter at Oregon (1998), where he threw for over 3,200 yards with 32 touchdown passes and just 8 interceptions.
  • His dual-threat ability allowed him to gain significant yardage on the ground, adding to his appeal as a modern quarterback.
• Physical Attributes:
  • Height: 6'4"
  • Weight: 210 lbs
  • Strong arm with the ability to make all the NFL throws.
  • Great mobility and quick release, allowing him to escape pressure and extend plays.
• Strengths:
  • Exceptional athleticism and speed for a quarterback.
  • Ability to throw on the run and make plays outside the pocket.
  • Good decision-making in terms of reading defenses, though still developing.
• Weaknesses:
  • Limited experience as a starter, which raised concerns about his readiness for the NFL.
  • Inconsistent mechanics at times, leading to accuracy issues on short throws.
  • Need for further development on reading complex defenses and making quicker decisions.
• Draft Projection:
  • Predicted to be selected in the top 5 of the 1999 NFL Draft.
  • Considered one of the top quarterback prospects alongside Donovan McNabb and Tim Couch.

Akili Smith was seen as a high-risk, high-reward prospect. His physical tools were undeniable, but teams had to weigh his limited experience and the potential for development against the immediate needs of their franchise.