With the 26th Pick of the NFL Draft, the Eagles Select: Marcus Smith
- Updated: May 8, 2014
The Eagles have acquired the 26th pick overall, as a result of their prior trade with Cleveland.
Marcus Smith, DE/OLB, 6-3½, 251, Louisville
Key stats: Had 42 tackles, 18.5 for loss, 14.5 sacks, 3 passes defensed and 4 forced fumbles in 2013.
Strengths: Highly-productive pass rusher and is most comfortable when attacking the quarterback. … Is very adept at stripping the ball from quarterbacks. … Used to blitz and rush from different locations. … Smith is naturally gifted as a pass rusher, using his quickness and instincts to locate ball. … Has good overall instincts, and could be situational rusher early in career. … Was former quarterback, and is just scratching the surface of his potential as a defender. … Has plenty of upside.
Weaknesses: He is not great against the run, but he can improve as he adds strength and technique. Has ability to drop into coverage, but is a definite work in progress in this area. … When in zone coverage loses feel for where receivers are. … Knows how to set the edge in run game but plays a bit too high when taking on blockers. … Has trouble disengaging from blockers. … Some of his sacks were due to Louisville’s complex blitz schemes that caused confusion for opposing offensive lines. Conclusion: Smith is a work in progress, but has all the physical ability to eventually become a good player in the NFL. … He has good size and will only get stronger. … He was used in a variety of ways at Louisville and should specialize early in his career on third downs, and in sub packages. … As he gains experience, could become a star if he continues to develop. … Best fit is as outside linebacker in 3-4, but also could fit as a 4-3 defensive end.
NFL comparison: Cameron Wake/Jerry Hughes.
Marcus Smith was taken higher than projected by Philadelphia at 26.
Why It Works: The Eagles priority is their defense. The versatility of DE/OLB Marcus Smith suits the Eagles bill, marvelously. Smith can play in almost any look and can line up in a variety of stances and positions. One of the overlooked talents in this draft class. Kudos to Philadelphia.
Draft Grade: A – Smart pick by Philadelphia, getting some equity out of their trade.
Related Posts
About Keith Fuchs
