Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Ihmir Smith-Marsette (Iowa) - 2021 NFL Draft Pick #157 by MIN

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Pre-Draft Analysis: Ihmir Smith-Marsette

College: University of Iowa
Position: Wide Receiver
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 185 lbs
Draft Year: 2021

Overview

Ihmir Smith-Marsette was a dynamic playmaker for the Iowa Hawkeyes, showcasing his skills as a wide receiver and return specialist. Known for his speed and agility, he was a significant threat both in the passing game and on special teams.

Strengths

• Speed: Smith-Marsette possesses elite straight-line speed that allows him to stretch the field and create separation from defenders.
• Route Running: He has the ability to run crisp routes, making him a reliable target for quarterbacks.
• After the Catch Ability: His agility and vision enable him to make plays after the catch, often turning short passes into explosive gains.
• Return Specialist: His experience as a punt and kick returner adds value to his draft stock, as he can contribute immediately on special teams.

Weaknesses

• Consistency: Smith-Marsette struggled with drops at times, raising concerns about his reliability as a pass catcher.
• Physicality: He can be outmuscled by more physical cornerbacks, which may limit his effectiveness in contested catches.
• Route Tree: His route tree was somewhat limited at Iowa, and there are questions about his ability to run a diverse set of routes at the NFL level.

Projected Draft Position

Smith-Marsette was projected to be a late-round pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, possibly in the 4th to 6th round range, due to his playmaking ability and potential as a return specialist.

Conclusion

Ihmir Smith-Marsette's combination of speed, agility, and playmaking ability makes him an intriguing prospect. While he has areas to improve, particularly in terms of consistency and physicality, his potential to contribute on both offense and special teams could lead to a successful NFL career.