Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Derek Smith (Virginia Tech) - 1999 NFL Draft Pick #165 by WAS

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Derek Smith (1999 NFL Draft)

Player Profile:

• Position: Linebacker
• College: Virginia Tech
• Height: 6'2"
• Weight: 240 lbs

Overview:

Derek Smith, a standout linebacker from Virginia Tech, entered the 1999 NFL Draft with a reputation for being a hard-hitting, physical player. His performance in college showcased his ability to read plays and react quickly, making him a versatile option for NFL teams looking to bolster their defensive units.

Strengths:

• Instincts: Smith has exceptional instincts on the field, allowing him to diagnose plays effectively.
• Speed & Agility: His speed enables him to cover a lot of ground, and his agility allows him to navigate through blockers.
• Tackling: Known for his aggressive tackling style, Smith is not afraid to take on ball carriers head-on.
• Leadership: As a team captain at Virginia Tech, he demonstrated strong leadership qualities and a high football IQ.

Weaknesses:

• Coverage Skills: While solid against the run, Smith needed to improve his coverage skills against faster, more agile receivers and tight ends.
• Injury History: Concerns about his durability have been raised due to minor injuries during his college career.

Draft Outlook:

Analysts projected Derek Smith to be selected in the mid to late rounds of the 1999 NFL Draft. His combination of size, speed, and instincts made him an attractive option for teams looking to add depth at the linebacker position. While he may not have been a top-tier prospect, his potential for development and impact on special teams contributed to his draft stock.

Conclusion:

Derek Smith was considered a solid linebacker prospect with the potential to contribute in multiple roles at the next level. Teams that valued physicality and leadership in their defensive units were particularly interested in his skill set as they prepared for the 1999 NFL Draft.