Nolan Smith is a highly touted edge rusher from the University of Georgia who is expected to be a top prospect in the 2023 NFL Draft. The Philadelphia Eagles currently hold two first-round picks and four picks in the top 100, and Smith could be a target for Howie Roseman and his staff early in the draft. Here is a comprehensive scouting report of Nolan Smith.
Nolan Smith (LB/Edge – Georgia) Scouting Report
Physical Traits
Smith is listed at 6’3″ and 235 pounds [2] and possesses impressive athleticism and length [6]. He has exceptional first-step quickness, above-average athleticism, and is light and athletic on his feet [7]. His play strength is impressive, and he creates leverage with hand placement on the shoulders of blockers [7].
Pass Rush
Smith’s shoulder dip around the corner as a rusher is excellent, and his quick reaction time and awareness make him a disruptive force against opposing quarterbacks [7]. He has a high motor and is relentless in his pursuit of the quarterback [1]. Smith’s length, IQ, and motor were all on display in the run game in Georgia’s game against Oregon, where he showcased his ability to set the edge and make tackles in space [6].
Run Defense
Smith’s ability to set the edge in the run game is impressive, and he has the agility and quickness to make tackles in space [6]. His physicality and hand placement on the shoulders of blockers allow him to shed blocks and make plays in the backfield [7].
Production
Smith posted 18 tackles, 2.5 sacks, and 2.5 tackles for loss in his freshman year, and followed that up with 21 tackles, 2.5 sacks, and 2.5 tackles for loss in his sophomore season [2]. Despite missing most of the 2022 season due to a torn pec injury, Smith was still able to record 4.5 sacks, 8.0 tackles for loss, and 3 forced fumbles in 12 games [9].
NFL Draft Projection
Smith is considered one of the top prospects in the 2023 NFL Draft, with some mock drafts projecting him as a first-round pick.
Nolan Smith NFL Player Comparisons
While there is no clear-cut comparison for Smith, several analysts have offered some possible NFL player comparisons.
Haason Reddick
One comparison that has been mentioned is Haason Reddick, who was drafted by the Arizona Cardinals in 2017 as a hybrid linebacker/edge rusher. Reddick, like Smith, was a highly-touted prospect coming out of college, with the ability to rush the passer and drop back in coverage [9].
Osi Umenyiora
Another comparison that has been made is to former New York Giants defensive end Osi Umenyiora. Umenyiora was a two-time Pro Bowler and won two Super Bowls during his career, and like Smith, he was known for his quickness and ability to beat offensive linemen off the edge [6].
It’s worth noting, however, that while comparisons can be helpful in providing a frame of reference for a prospect’s style of play, they should be taken with a grain of salt. Ultimately, Smith’s success in the NFL will depend on a variety of factors, including his work ethic, coaching, and the team that drafts him.
