Braden Smith NFL Draft 2018: Scouting Report for Indianapolis Colts' Pick

POSITIVES

—Three-year starter, with most of his reps coming at right guard.

—Mean at the point of attack; toughness is impressive on film. Real-deal bodyguard.

—Consistent in the passing game and handles different types of rushers thanks to combo of power and athleticism.

—Can anchor against strong interior pass-rushers. Bull rushes don't affect him.

—Plug-and-play right guard with the athleticism to fit any scheme.

NEGATIVES

—Falls off too many blocks and needs to lock on with stronger hands.

—His read-and-react can be slow to recognize stunts and blitzes.

—Punch can be wild and inaccurate, which allows defenders to get into his 6'6", 315-pound frame.

—Balance and body control aren't as good as his test times indicate.

—Maxed-out frame and technique; might be as good as he'll get.

Braden Smith OG NFL Draft

OVERALL

Braden Smith is an ideal Round 2-3 candidate with the tools to be a rookie starter. He checks the boxes for size but has shorter arms (32 ¼") that keep his projection inside at guard. If he can work on more consistent hand placement, he could become a Pro Bowl-caliber player.

GRADE: 6.50 (Round 2-3)

PRO PLAYER COMPARISON: Kyle Long, Chicago Bears