Donovan Smith

strengths

NFL scouts can check quite a few boxes when watching the Penn State tackle. Smith has the size, foot quickness and the high competitive nature that translates well to the next level. Smith slides smoothly to his left, maintaining the arc with good knee bend in pass protection. He flashes violent hands to control defenders and generally keeps his feet shuffling laterally to mirror. He's quick to the second level and understands blocking angles, using his massive frame to legally get in the way of pursuing defenders without grasping on and drawing the flag. Smith is cognizant against the blitz, peeling off of his initial assignment, if needed, to get a quick shove on surprise rushers. Big and athletic enough to move to any of the other exterior positions, giving his future OL coach a lot of flexibility if Smith isn't able to handle NFL speed off the edge.

weaknesses

Needs to improve in several areas before NFL ready, most notably with his arm and hand technique to better shield himself to combat rushers' initial pass rush moves. Smith has a bad habit of playing too high and needs to improve his knee bend, but the culprit there appears to be lack of consistent technique, not lack of flexibility. Does a nice job of protecting the corner but will get caught leaning outside and leave too much space inside. Flashes explosiveness with his punch but too often is satisfied with catching defenders and will lean into them as he tires. In doing so, Smith bends at the waist, leaving himself vulnerable to swims and spins. Wears double knee braces.

Smith was a first-team all-state and Baltimore Sun first-team all-met selection for Coach Steve Lurz at Owings Mills High School. He did not allow a sack as a junior or senior and also was a standout defensive lineman. Smith played in the 2011 U.S. Army All-American Bowl and was rated a four-star recruit by 24/7sports.com.

Full name is Donovan Cole Smith. He is the son of Sharon Thomas. He has three sisters, Danielle and Tamika Thomas and Ebony Smith, and one brother, Dwayne Thomas. He enjoys listening to music, reading, cooking, fishing, playing video games and watching stand-up comedy. He is studying criminology and is interested in becoming an FBI agent or detective. Born June 23, 1993 in Hempstead, N.Y.