Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Harrison Smith (Notre Dame) - 2012 NFL Draft Pick #29 by MIN

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Harrison Smith (2012 NFL Draft)

Position: Safety
College: Notre Dame

Overview

Harrison Smith was one of the top safety prospects in the 2012 NFL Draft, known for his impressive combination of athleticism, intelligence, and playmaking ability. He played a crucial role in the Notre Dame defense, showcasing versatility and leadership throughout his collegiate career.

Strengths

• Instincts: Smith demonstrated excellent football IQ, often reading plays effectively and reacting quickly.
• Versatility: Capable of playing both strong safety and free safety, making him a valuable asset in various defensive schemes.
• Range: His speed and agility allowed him to cover a lot of ground, ensuring he could contribute in both run support and pass coverage.
• Tackling: Smith was a proficient tackler, showing the ability to wrap up and make stops in the open field.
• Leadership: As a captain at Notre Dame, he was respected by teammates and coaches alike for his work ethic and commitment.

Weaknesses

• Consistency: While he had standout games, there were times where he struggled with coverage against elite receivers.
• Physicality: Although he was a solid tackler, there were instances where he could have been more aggressive in run support.

Overall Analysis

Harrison Smith was projected as a first-round talent, with many analysts believing he would make an immediate impact at the next level. His ability to read the game, combined with his physical skills, positioned him as a potential starter for a team in need of a reliable safety. Teams looking for a player who could contribute both in coverage and against the run were particularly interested in Smith.

Projected Draft Position

Most mock drafts had Smith going in the late first round to early second round, with several teams identifying him as a key target to bolster their secondary.