Film Watched: Texas 2021, TCU 2021, Iowa State 2021
Pro's:
Tough, bruising running back who played linebacker for a season – and it shows
Thick torso with a big, strong frame – ideal proportions for an NFL running back
Natural space finder on inside runs
Demonstrates good timing to hit the hole, uses his blocks well to disguise his intentions
Impressive one-cut runner, leaning the line one way before planting and going another
Physical finisher – a runaway train mentality and not an easy man or tacklers to square up
Average burst, but healthy top speed allows him to pull away once through the line of scrimmage
Startling development in the last 12 months – high ceiling prospect
Plenty of tread left on his tyres after just one year of a full workload at Baylor
Con's:
Very linear runner – straight line, full throttle
Lacks some fluidity – tight hips make his short area agility limited
Plays tall with a high pad level – more work on technique to be done
Lack of usage as a pass catcher in Waco, although showed his potential at the Senior Bowl
Ran exclusively out of the shotgun, and might be solely a zone-scheme running rack
Ultra-physical style at the next level could bring up longevity concerns
The Verdict:
“After two seasons with barely any gametime, Abram Smith converted to linebacker in 2020 - racking up 48 tackles and a sack in five games. That natural power and athleticism saw him return to a running back role in 2021 and thrive, recording more than 1,600 yards and 13 TD’s as Baylor had a season to remember. Physical and insistent, Smith has so far wowed scouts in the pre-draft process with his continued progression at the position despite his small body of work. There’s still some way for him to go before he masters his craft; his pad level and footwork are key areas of development, as are his hands in the passing game. But the vision and understanding behind the line of scrimmage is natural, and his current trajectory will have scouts very interested. Considering the upside, I’d be surprised if he was on the board long on day three.”
PREVIOUSLY THE FOUNDER OF NFL DRAFT UK, SIMON HAS BEEN COVERING COLLEGE FOOTBALL AND THE NFL DRAFT SINCE 2009. BASED IN MANCHESTER, SIMON IS ALSO CO-CREATOR & WEEKLY GUEST OF THE COLLAPSING POCKET PODCAST.