Jaylin Smith
Career Summary
Jaylin Smith is a cornerback from Palmdale, California, who played at USC before the Houston Texans selected him in the 2025 NFL Draft.
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Early Life
Smith grew up in Palmdale, California, and attended Bishop Alemany High School.
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High School
Smith attended Bishop Alemany High School in Mission Hills, California, before beginning his USC career.
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College Career
Smith appeared in 43 games with 32 starts across four seasons at USC, totaling 182 tackles, 12.5 tackles for loss, three interceptions, five pass breakups and two forced fumbles.
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Path to the NFL
After four years at USC and a productive senior season, Smith entered the 2025 NFL Draft. Houston selected him in the third round with the 97th overall pick.
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NFL Career
The Houston Texans selected Smith as a cornerback in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft with the 97th overall pick.
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Career Accomplishments
Smith earned All-Big Ten third-team honors in 2024 after recording 59 tackles, four tackles for loss and two interceptions in 10 starts. His two interceptions tied for the USC team lead that season.
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Playing Style
NFL scouting noted Smith's press-man ability and inside-outside flexibility. He was listed at 5-foot-11 and 190 pounds and had extensive experience in USC's secondary.
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30947, 00-0040149, 2003-11-05, Jaylin Smith, Jaylin, Smith
MFT PLAYER RANKINGS
Current player ranking
MFT Score: 39.1
2026 preseason baseline. Position-relative and updated through the site’s weekly review process.