OLB, Corey Smith, Cincinnati

OLB, Corey Smith, Cincinnati

Pros:  Strong, muscular upper and lower body. ... Long arms to stay off blocks and wrap up ballcarriers. ... Chops down big backs and receivers in open space. ... Very active, will run sideline to sideline and chase plays downfield. ... Stays low in his stance in coverage, can drop deep, get to the flat, change direction and attack the ball.

Cons:  A bit short for the position. ... Will take false steps and react slowly at times in zone coverage. ... Must become more consistent swarming to the ball in space.

Styg's Broncos Fit:  Smith is an overall complete package at LB, but his skills project better to a MLB in a 4-3, which is no surprise, since that was his position every year except 2008, when he moved due to team need.  He has missed time due to, and played through, various injuries.  A tough player with good instincts in coverage but will bite too early on underneath routes through his zone.  Smith is a solid late-round pick, but less-than-ideal scheme fit should cause Denver to pass.

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From "Top 25 Big East Defensive Players in 2008" at Card Chronicles:

17. COREY SMITH, LB, CINCINNATI

The leader of a talented trio of Bearcat linebackers, Smith ranked second on the squad a year ago with 80 tackles. In spite of a relative lack of size, he figures to be a preseason All-Big East honoree heading into his final year at UC.

Highlights:

Scouting Reports and Offsite Links:

• An athletic linebacker with the burst and speed to track down the ball and run sideline to sideline. Possesses very long arms for his frame and does a great job keeping defenders off his body. Plays with natural leverage at the point of attack and does a nice job fighting through blocks and attacking up field. Is an effective blitzer off the edge.  [see more...]