Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Irv Smith Jr. (Alabama) - 2019 NFL Draft Pick #50 by MIN

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Irv Smith Jr. - 2019 NFL Draft

Player Overview:
Irv Smith Jr. is a tight end from the University of Alabama, known for his athleticism, route running, and ability to make plays after the catch. Standing at 6'2" and weighing around 242 pounds, he showcased a versatile skill set that made him an appealing prospect for NFL teams in need of a dynamic tight end. Strengths:

• Athleticism: Smith possesses great speed and agility for a tight end, making him a matchup nightmare for linebackers and safeties.
• Receiving Skills: He has reliable hands and demonstrates excellent body control, allowing him to make difficult catches in traffic.
• Route Running: Smith displays polished route-running abilities, often creating separation from defenders with his quick footwork.
• Yards After Catch (YAC): His ability to gain additional yards after making a catch is a significant asset, as he can turn short passes into big plays.
• Blocking Ability: While primarily known for his receiving skills, Smith also shows promise as a blocker, contributing to both run and pass protection.

Weaknesses:

• Size: At 6'2", he may be undersized compared to traditional tight ends, which could limit his effectiveness in certain blocking situations.
• Experience: Although he had a productive college career, some teams may question his experience and overall production, given Alabama's deep roster.
• Consistency: At times, he struggled with drops, which could raise concerns about his reliability as a pass-catcher in critical moments.

Overall Projection:
Irv Smith Jr. was projected to be a solid second-round pick in the 2019 NFL Draft. His combination of athleticism and skills made him a sought-after prospect, particularly for teams looking to add depth and versatility to their tight end position. With the ability to stretch the field and contribute in multiple facets of the game, he was seen as a player who could quickly make an impact at the professional level.