Steve Smith (Oregon) - 2002 NFL Draft Pick #246 by JAX
What The Experts Thought Before The Draft
Pre-Draft Analysis for Steve Smith - 2002 NFL Draft
Player Profile:
- Name: Steve Smith
- College: Oregon
- Position: Wide Receiver
- Height: 5'9"
- Weight: 185 lbs
Strengths:
- Excellent route runner with sharp cuts and quick acceleration.
- Strong hands and ability to make contested catches.
- Good agility and elusiveness after the catch, able to gain yards in the open field.
- Experience as a return specialist, adding value as a potential punt/kickoff returner.
- High football IQ and ability to read defenses effectively.
Weaknesses:
- Size may be a concern; at 5'9", he may struggle against larger cornerbacks.
- Limited experience against top-tier defensive talent in college.
- Needs to improve blocking skills in the run game.
Overall Assessment:
Steve Smith was regarded as a dynamic playmaker with a lot of potential as a wide receiver. His speed and agility made him a constant threat in the open field, and his ability to make difficult catches set him apart from many of his peers. While his size posed questions about his ability to compete at the next level, his skill set and work ethic made him a desirable pick for teams looking for a versatile offensive weapon.
Projected Draft Round:
Smith was projected to be selected in the 2nd to 3rd round of the 2002 NFL Draft, depending on team needs and preferences.