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Aldon Smith (Missouri) - 2011 NFL Draft Pick #7 by SF

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Aldon Smith - Pre-Draft Analysis (2011 NFL Draft)

College: University of Missouri
Position: Outside Linebacker / Defensive End
Height: 6'4"
Weight: 258 lbs

Overview:

Aldon Smith was widely regarded as one of the most talented pass rushers in the 2011 NFL Draft class. His combination of size, speed, and athleticism made him a highly coveted prospect coming out of Missouri. Analysts noted his potential to be an impactful player at the next level due to his ability to disrupt opposing offenses.

Strengths:

• Pass Rush Ability: Smith demonstrated exceptional quickness off the line of scrimmage, allowing him to penetrate offensive backfields and apply pressure on quarterbacks.
• Versatility: Capable of playing both defensive end and linebacker, Smith's skill set gave him the flexibility to fit into various defensive schemes.
• Length and Reach: His long arms and wingspan helped him engage blockers effectively while also providing an advantage in shedding blocks.
• Motor: Smith displayed a relentless pursuit of the ball, often chasing down plays from behind.

Weaknesses:

• Inexperience: Limited experience in pass coverage raised concerns about his ability to drop into coverage effectively.
• Injury History: Had some injury concerns during his college career, which could impact his durability at the professional level.
• Consistency: While he showed flashes of brilliance, there were games where he struggled to make an impact.

Draft Projection:

Aldon Smith was projected to be a top-10 pick in the 2011 NFL Draft due to his high ceiling and the demand for talented pass rushers in the league. Many experts believed that he would be an immediate contributor for a team in need of defensive help.

Conclusion:

With his unique blend of size, speed, and athleticism, Aldon Smith was considered a potential game-changer on the defensive side of the ball. Teams were eager to draft him, hoping he could develop into a star player in the NFL.