(Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
The NFL Draft is soon approaching, and many teams have hosted some of their favorite prospects on visits.
While each team has an independent process in terms of evaluating players, some prospects are universally sought after.
One of those prospects is Nolan Smith, a defensive end from the University of Georgia.
According to NFL Insider Aaron Wilson, Smith has several visits planned in the coming days, including a stop with the New England Patriots.
Source: Georgia @GeorgiaFootball edge rusher Nolan Smith visiting #Patriots today, #Buccaneers, #Jaguars, #Ravens among other visits @KPRC2https://t.co/a43m0fqbzs
— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) April 6, 2023
During his final season at Georgia, Smith had just 18 total tackles and three sacks.
This lack of production was due to an injury that he sustained in late October 2022, where he tore his pectoral muscle.
However, during his 2021 campaign, Smith had 55 total tackles, 3.5 sacks, three forced fumbles, and one interception.
Smith proved that he could be an impactful player on a loaded roster, and will look to showcase those skills in the NFL.
Despite his on-field dominance at Georgia, Smith’s draft stock skyrocketed after his combine performances.
Smith ran a 4.39-second 40-yard dash, which turned the heads of many scouts and prospective teams.
He also had a 41.5″ vertical jump, and measured in at 6’2″ and 238 pounds.
Smith’s measurables, speed, and on-field tape have generated a lot of buzz around the league, and many have touted him as a can’t-miss prospect.
Even if a team doesn’t necessarily have a pressing need at the defensive end, it never hurts to have depth at the position.
Pending a trade, the Patriots are slated to pick 14th overall in April’s draft.
Will this be an early enough pick to snag a player of Smith’s caliber?
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