Nolan Smith – Edge rusher – 22 years old – Senior – Georgia
Height: 1m88
Weight: 107kg
Estimated draft position: 1st round
NFL comparison: Haason Reddick (Eagles)
2022 stats: 8 matches, 18 tackles (7 for loss including 2 sacks), 1 pass defended
A 5-star recruit out of high school, we expected mountains and wonders from Nolan Smith at the university level. If all was not as expected, he still showed great things during his studies at the University of Georgia.
Strong points
–Leadership
– Engine
– Very physical
– Run Defense
One thing that seems to make Smith’s profile particularly interesting is the fact that his leadership is shouted from the rooftops by all the specialists. Injured for the end of the 2022 season, he took on a lot of responsibility on the sideline for the Georgia Bulldogs and was constantly behind his teammates to encourage them. He approaches football with extraordinary determination and it shows on the pitch. He gives the impression that no one will ever be able to block him. He also manages to take good angles to pass under the guard of the opposing tackle and create pressure on the quarterback. Smith showed some great things on the cover and that makes him a very versatile and athletically complete player. His changes of direction are excellent and serve him in all game compartments.
Weak points
– Pass rush
– Injuries
It is true that if there is one thing to complain about in the game of Nolan Smith, it is certainly the pass rush and in particular his panoply of movements, but also the use of his hands. Its production of bags will probably have to climb a bit for it to be considered a threat in this area. Smith notably lacks a bit of power due to his relatively small size for the position and this can be seen in certain sequences during his course with the Bulldogs. Finally, there is necessarily the question of injuries and therefore of its durability. The former Athens resident has already missed a lot of games at university level, including a torn chest in 2022.
Possible destinations
Chicago Bears, Green Bay Packers, Houston Texans, New Orleans Saints
As for the Bears, any form of help aimed at improving the pressure on the opposing attack remains welcome.
In Green Bay, Preston Smith and Rashan Gary make the deal on the pass rushbut the second does not have a contract beyond 2023. A good reason to integrate Nola Smith into the rotation and make a decision afterwards?
In Houston, Jerry Hughes is quite old and Jonathan Greenard, after a good 2021 season, never found his rhythm in 2022. So we have to bring in some new blood.
On the side of New Orleans, a new leader could really give a breath of fresh air to the workforce of the Louisiana franchise.
