STRENGTHS: With his broad shoulders and thick, powerful limbs, Smith-Schuster has the prototypical frame for the split end receiver position. He slaps away attempts at pressing him at the line of scrimmage, showing off his strength and lateral agility. While perhaps lacking elite top-end speed, Smith-Schuster glides off the line of scrimmage, accelerating smoothly to gobble up the cushion and sneaking past corners to serve as an effective deep threat. He uses his broad frame to shield defenders from the ball, easily out-muscling corners at this level to win contested passes and shucking would-be tacklers after the catch with a wicked stiff-arm, leg drive and determined running.
WEAKNESSES: Smith-Schuster does not possess elite top-end speed to take the top off of defenses. Further, too often he's been able to win with just his size and strength as a route-runner, pulling in passes with defenders draped over him simply because of his bulk and the accuracy of the passes being thrown to him. Smith-Schuster is a coordinated athlete but does not explode out of breaks. Competitive and physical, Smith-Schuster is already ahead of most college receivers as a downfield blocker but he has not maximized his potential in this regard, failing to sustain blocks by stopping his feet on contact and pushing opponents rather than surging through contact.
IN OUR VIEW: NFL teams in search of a big, physical tone-setter on the perimeter will value Smith-Schuster's physical talent, work ethic and toughness.
COMPARES TO: Brandon Marshall, New York Jets: Though two inches shorter than the 6-4, 220 pound Pro-Bowler, Smith-Schuster offers a similar blend of physicality, reliable hands and competitiveness on the outside.
