Jerod Smith II

Big edge defender experienced from a two-point stance with size and strength to set the edge. Verified in 6-3.5, 245 range entering senior season. Athletic combine tester with impressive numbers in the 40, shuttle, three-cone, and vertical categories. Also played some basketball during high school career. Capped prep tenure with excellent production: 90 tackles, 20 TFL, nine sacks in 13 games for Kentucky 4A state runner-up. Plays with effort and rallies to the ball. Flashes stack-and-shed strength in a phone booth with conviction to fight through or around doubles to pursue the ball. Generally good about staying at home on the backside when needed. Uncoils quickly and strikes with power without needing much gather. Trimmed about 20 pounds from Spring 2022 to Spring 2023 and functional athleticism reflected that on tape in Fall 2023. Quick-footed and capable of matching hand nuance with lower half to fuel secondary rush. Displays impressive inside counter ability as a pass rusher. Also flashes a heavy inside hand when bull rushing. Played snaps off the ball at linebacker and in a four-point IDL role prior to 2023, but senior year as a standing edge seemed to put him in optimal situations relative to his play style. Burly, stout athlete with strong base and core, but lacks length. Will need to win consistently with technique and speed-to-power qualities because of that. Plays a bit high at times. Very old for the 2024 cycle with an Aug. 2004 DOB. Could provide some valuable personnel versatility. Projects as a high-major front-line defensive prospect best-suited to play on the edge with physical tools to stay on the field in all down-and-distance scenarios. Possesses potential to develop into an impact defender with long-term NFL Draft upside.

More Evaluations

• Evaluated 08/10/2022 Brian Dohn National Recruiting Analyst Read