Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Elerson Smith (Northern Iowa) - 2021 NFL Draft Pick #116 by NYG

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Pre-Draft Analysis: Elerson Smith - Northern Iowa

Position: Edge Rusher
Height: 6'6"
Weight: 262 lbs
College: Northern Iowa

Overview

Elerson Smith was a standout defensive player at Northern Iowa, showcasing his potential as a disruptive edge rusher. He entered the 2021 NFL Draft with an impressive combination of size, athleticism, and production, making him an intriguing prospect for teams looking to bolster their defensive line.

Strengths

• Length and Size: Smith possesses an ideal frame for an edge rusher, allowing him to engage effectively with offensive linemen and disrupt passing lanes.
• Pass-Rush Ability: Demonstrated a knack for getting to the quarterback, with a strong array of pass-rushing moves that include speed, power, and agility.
• Versatility: Capable of lining up in multiple positions along the defensive front, providing flexibility in defensive schemes.
• Motor and Effort: Consistently appears to give maximum effort on every play, showcasing a relentless pursuit of the ball.

Weaknesses

• Level of Competition: Played in the FCS level, which raises questions about how his skills will translate to the NFL against elite talent.
• Inconsistency: While he has flashed dominant performances, there are games where he has struggled to make an impact.
• Technique Refinement: Needs to refine his hand technique to disengage more effectively from blockers at higher levels of competition.

Overall Projection

Elerson Smith is viewed as a developmental prospect with significant upside. His blend of size and athleticism makes him a potentially valuable asset for a team in need of a young edge rusher. Expect him to be drafted in the mid to late rounds, with the potential to become a rotational player early in his career and a future starter if he can refine his technique and continue to improve.

Potential Draft Range:

• Mid-round selection (4th-6th round)