Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Kevin Smith (Central Florida) - 2008 NFL Draft Pick #64 by DET

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Kevin Smith - 2008 NFL Draft

Player Profile:

• Name: Kevin Smith
• Position: Running Back
• College: University of Central Florida (UCF)
• Height: 6'1"
• Weight: 217 lbs

Overview:

Kevin Smith was one of the most productive running backs in college football during his time at UCF. His combination of size, speed, and vision made him a standout player, and he was particularly known for his ability to break tackles and gain yards after contact.

Key Strengths:

• Production: Smith had an impressive college career, highlighted by a record-setting season in 2007 where he rushed for over 2,500 yards.
• Durability: Showed the ability to handle a heavy workload, capable of carrying the ball numerous times per game without a significant drop in performance.
• Versatility: Effective not just as a runner but also in the passing game, demonstrating solid hands and route-running skills.
• Vision and Patience: Displayed excellent field vision, allowing him to find running lanes and make quick decisions on the field.

Areas for Improvement:

• Speed: While he had good speed for his size, there were questions about whether he could consistently outrun defenders at the NFL level.
• Pass Protection: Needs to improve in pass-blocking situations, as this is a crucial skill for running backs in the NFL.
• Injury History: There were concerns about durability, particularly how he would handle the rigors of a full NFL season.

Projected Draft Round: Many analysts projected Kevin Smith to be selected in the second or third round of the 2008 NFL Draft, with teams valuing his production and potential impact on offense.

Conclusion:

Kevin Smith was seen as a solid running back prospect with the potential to contribute immediately in the NFL. His impressive college statistics and ability to perform under pressure made him a player to watch heading into the draft.