Elerson Smith NFL Draft 2021: Scouting Report for New York Giants DL

HEIGHT: 6'6¼"

WEIGHT: 252

POSITIVES

—Has great athleticism for his size.

—His upside as a speed-rusher correlates to a starting NFL defensive end.

—Height (6'6") and length (34") are premium traits to his game.

—His weight is still rising, as he is developing into his unfilled frame.

—Looked the part at the Senior Bowl with FBS players.

NEGATIVES

—Looks like he was thinner on film than his measured size.

—His pad level is much too high regularly, even for a 6'6" end.

—Provides little upside in the run game at the moment.

2020 STATISTICS

Did not play in 2020.

NOTES

—FCS All-American in 2019, his first season as a starter.

—Was a more highly regarded tight end than pass-rusher in high school.

OVERALL

Elerson Smith is a length, speed pass-rusher who is still filling out his frame but is checking boxes as the draft process plays out. He looked the part of an NFL pass-rusher at the Senior Bowl and measured in at his pro day at NFL size. Working on his ability against the run game and his pad level will be a must if he plans to start in the NFL, but he warrants a draft selection as an upside developmental player who can see pass-rushing reps in pass-only situations at the moment.

GRADE: 7.21/10 (Round 4)

OVERALL RANK: 131/300

POSITION RANK: EDGE20

PRO COMPARISON: Lorenzo Carter

Written by B/R NFL Scout Justis Mosqueda