Sean Smith SELECTED BY: Dolphins Round 2 (29)

SI Grade 3.85 GRADING SYSTEM

BIOGRAPHY: Two-year starter who began his career playing receiver. All-Conference selection last season after totaling 46/5/9. Sophomore numbers included 32/64/7.

POSITIVES: Athletically gifted defensive back with a large upside. Fast, possesses a burst of speed, and is able to recover from mistakes with his ability to close on the action. Uses his frame to box out opponents, easily runs downfield with receivers, and does a nice job positioning himself to make plays on the pass. Has long arms that he uses to knock away the throw. Physical, mixes it up, and beats down opponents. Effective facing the action when he can see the ball, and shows ability in zone.

NEGATIVES: Slow transitioning off the line, and has a tendency to lose a half step to opponents at the snap of the ball. Occasionally bites on receivers' moves and gets beat down the field. Does not always show a good sense of timing or wherewithal in coverage. Very quick out of his backpedal.

ANALYSIS: Smith is a tremendous physical specimen with the ability to be used at cornerback or safety. Displaying potential in zone coverage, he is best facing the action, where he can use his speed and strength to forcefully make plays on the ball. Smith must improve his defensive back mechanics, yet he can be a tremendous player on the NFL level if he pulls it all together.

PROJECTION: Second Round