2008 NFL Draft: 49ers select Reggie Smith, DB, Oklahoma

by David Fucillo on Apr 27, 2008 8:15 AM PDT in San Francisco 49ers News

I thought the 49ers would take a DB at some point and they decided to grab one right away on day 2 with Reggie Smith from Oklahoma. ESPN listed him as a cornerback, but he appears to be much more versatile and can go out there as a safety as well. While he's his own guy, this pick reminds me a little of Dashon Goldson last year. Goldson is a DB who can play both corner and safety. The upside to these kinds of picks is the ability to create some versatility with your defenders and use them in different packages.

The boys at New Era Scouting had Reggie Smith #2 on their safety list, which I think was due in part to his versatility:

Smith is a very athletic and talented defensive back. His stock is aided by his ability to play both cornerback and safety, but there are also concerns about his long-term position.

Over at ESPN, Scout's Inc said:

What he brings: Smith doesn't have great speed and can be beaten deep when left on an island. But he's a versatile playmaker who can line up at corner or safety and contribute to the return game. He's also strong in run support and capable of limiting a receiver's production after the catch.

How he fits: He is a versatile player and can give them a boost on special teams. With the age of Walt Harris and the lack of development of Shawntae Spencer, Smith can come in and contribute in 49ers' sub defensive packages.

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Comments

Two words that concern me about this pick:

Mike. Rumph.

He too came in as a guy who could do all kinds of things, but the phrase that jumps to mind is jack of all trades, master of none.

I am speaking of course without any real knowledge on the subject, this is simply a concern that comes to mind when I read about a corner without speed who might also be used as a safety. Do you guys think his ceiling is good enough that he might be worth a third round pick?

"He called the sh** POOP!" -- Adam Sandler

by JRPhillips on Apr 27, 2008 10:06 AM PDT reply actions

and that's exactly the difference

rumph came in as a 1st rounder and was asked to start his rookie year (if memory serves, I could be wrong). A 3rd rounder is a less risky pick.

Still defending Rich Aurilia, and the Niners classic Unis

by wjackalope on Apr 27, 2008 10:52 AM PDT up reply actions

Honestly, who cares about a 40?

He ran a 4.51, slower than the “elite” corners who will be in the weight room or the doctor’s table come mid-season. What’s more important is how he fares against big receivers. When your division rivals include Fitzgerald and Boldin, a skin and bones corner won’t cut it. In three games against Limas Sweed and Adarius Bowman, the two best receivers he faced, Smith gave up an an average of less than 50 yards. He’s game.

by Nineraguan on Apr 27, 2008 12:22 PM PDT reply actions