PROSPECT SUMMARY – BRANDON SMITH
Iowa wide receiver Brandon Smith will have a reasonable chance of developing into a more productive pro receiver than college target as he leaves behind the Iowa Hawkeyes program. Smith, who profiles favorably as a stereotypical possession receiver (X) at the next level, was open more often than he was targeted at Iowa due to some poor process and quarterback play from his passers with the Hawkeyes. But that does not put Smith above reproach, as he has more work to do in order to defeat press coverage at the line of scrimmage and he must develop further as a route-runner to ensure he maximizes his separation opportunities at the pro level. As is, Smith is a contested-catch target who shows some good body control for late adjustments to the football on high-point and back-shoulder throws. Smith is not a blazer and his lack of short-area burst will cause more fluid defenders to sit on his route stems, which makes his development early in routes and his continued effectiveness at the catch point critical for his long-term outlook as a receiver.
Ideal Role: Developmental X-receiver.
Scheme Fit: Vertical passing offense.
Written by Kyle Crabbs
