Sept 22, 2012; Starkville, MS, USA; Mississippi State Bulldogs defensive lineman Preston Smith (91) celebrates after making a play during the game against the South Alabama Jaguars at Davis Wade Stadium. Mississippi State Bulldogs defeated the South Alabama Jaguars 30-10. Mandatory Credit: Spruce Derden-USA TODAY Sports
The Washington Redskins opened the second round of the 2015 NFL Draft Friday night by drafting Preston Smith from Mississippi State with the 38th pick.
Smith (6-5, 271 lbs) played defensive end in college, but the Redskins plan on moving him to outside linebacker. Smith will likely replace Brian Orakpo in the starting lineup. The Redskins have now filled their two top needs heading into the draft after selecting Smith today and RT Brandon Scherff on Thursday night.
Smith led Mississippi State last year with nine sacks and 15 tackles for a loss.
Scouts take:
Angular build with long arms. Has point-of-attack strength and doesn’t get pushed around. Plays with leverage against the run. Very sound wrap-up tackler who usually finishes the job. Flashes busy hands as a pass rusher and uses them to gain advantage. Gets arm extension, finds running back and looks to shed against gap running plays. As a junior, rushed passer from both ends and over the nose while also dropping into space on occasion. Can be a disruptive player when asked to play the gaps. Has ability to slip and go when rushing from inside position.
Smith has been a solid, rotational defensive end for Mississippi State, but nothing too special. When studying tape long enough, you see traits and potential. With his long arms, plus hands and ability to play the run, Smith could be an interesting prospect inside or in a hybrid 3-4 front. As a 4-3 defensive end, he lacks the twitch to be an impact player.
Below are a few videos featuring Smith:
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