By: Michael Higgins

School: University of South Carolina (Junior)

Position: CB

HT: 6’0

WT: 188 lbs

Sideline Prospect Ranking: #6

Cam Smith is an extremely sticky corner that does well keeping himself hip-to-hip with the receiver. He has a certain level of physicality to his game, which he is able to channel well, that is rare in this era of football. Smith is a gifted athlete and extremely technically sound, has quick feet and great hip rotation which allows him to go stride for stride with the best competition in the SEC. Not only is he quick, but he has top end speed. He can run downhill with the best of the best. The confidence he has in himself is obvious when you turn on the film as he never seems too flustered, no matter the situation. Smith has excellent ball skills and has the ability to make those splash plays on every drive. His instincts when the ball is in the air are up there with the best in this draft class. The process that Smith takes when the ball is in the air is textbook. He looks back to the ball, keeps stride with the receiver, and does what he can to get his hands on the ball. Whether that means he deflects the pass or intercepts it, those are the ball skills that top tier cornerbacks need to display. He is a great run defender as he is an extremely willing tackler and seemingly seeks it out. Not only is he technically sound, but he also possesses great ball skills that allows him to create splash plays for his defense.

Smith’s strengths can also work against him in some situations as he can be a below average tackler, like many defensive backs are, he neglects to follow through with his tackles and complete the process, allowing for ball carriers to slip through his arms and break the tackle. Based on his profile, it is a safe bet that he will get called for being too grabby at the next level, but that is a learning curve that I believe he will overcome. Smith is also less instinctive than you would like from your CB1. He is easily susceptible to double moves or play action. The hesitation in his game in these situations is obvious and can result in him being beat.

Cam Smith is a long and lanky corner who can sink his hips and stick to receivers like glue in man coverage. He also has that mindset and tenacity that I believe is necessary from a quarterback. He makes no excuses and is a team player. After the win over a top-ranked Tennessee team, Cam Smith was asked what was said at halftime in order to spark the 2nd half dominance that led to a win. Smith simply said, “nothing, just drop your nuts.”. While that quote sounds somewhat vulgar in nature I think it perfectly depicts Smith’s mindset. He knew what that team had to do in order to complete the upset and it started with the mental part of the game and he didn’t hesitate to answer that question.

Scheme Fit: Press man coverage

Ideal Role: Boundary cornerback

Best Team Fits: NE, DET, CHI

Player Comparison: Denzel Ward

Player Grade: 90.3