Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Preston Smith (Mississippi St.) - 2015 NFL Draft Pick #38 by WAS

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Preston Smith (2015 NFL Draft)

College: Mississippi State University
Position: Defensive End/Outside Linebacker

Physical Attributes

• Height: 6'5"
• Weight: 271 lbs
• Arm Length: 34 1/8"
• Hand Size: 10 1/8"

Strengths

• Strong, powerful frame with the ability to shed blocks effectively.
• Excellent burst off the line of scrimmage, showcasing quickness in pass rush situations.
• Versatile player who can line up as a defensive end or outside linebacker.
• Demonstrated strong tackling ability and pursuit skills, contributing to both pass and run defense.
• Solid production in college, with a notable number of tackles for loss and sacks.

Weaknesses

• Inconsistent technique in pass rush; can rely too heavily on physicality rather than refined moves.
• Needs to improve hand placement and disengagement techniques to excel at the next level.
• Can struggle with maintaining gap integrity at times, which may lead to big plays by opposing offenses.

Overall Assessment

Preston Smith was viewed as a promising prospect in the 2015 NFL Draft, with a blend of size, strength, and athleticism that made him an intriguing option for teams looking for edge rushers. His versatility allowed him to fit into various defensive schemes, making him a valuable asset. However, scouts noted the need for him to refine his technique to maximize his potential at the professional level.

Projected Draft Round

Most analysts projected Preston Smith to be selected in the second to third round of the 2015 NFL Draft, depending on team needs and the overall depth of the defensive line class that year.