Jared Smith

Physical Profile

Smith possesses a prototypical frame for an interior offensive lineman, standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing in the 330-340 pound range. His physical traits are highlighted by an impressive near 6-foot-10 wingspan and large 13-inch hands, which allow him to control defenders at the point of attack. He is a multi-sport athlete, having competed in track and field as a discus and shot put thrower, which speaks to his baseline power and athleticism. While not the most fluid athlete, he displays surprising nimbleness in his pass sets for a player of his stature.

Play Style

Smith is a physical, tone-setting lineman who plays with a mean streak. He is at his best when he can fire off the ball and engage defenders in a phone booth, using his raw power and size to overwhelm them. In pass protection, he is patient and uses his long arms and strong hands to latch onto and control rushers. He spent his junior season at left tackle but projects as a guard at the next level where his skill set is best utilized.

Strengths

• Mauling run blocker who excels in a gap scheme, utilizing his mass and powerful punch to move defenders off the ball.
• Dominant at the point of attack, with the ability to wash defenders down the line of scrimmage and create large running lanes.
• Exceptional size and length with a nearly 6-foot-10 wingspan that he uses to his advantage in pass protection and in the run game.
• Winner of the Offensive Line MVP award at the Under Armour Next camp in Atlanta, demonstrating his ability to compete and win against top-tier competition.

Areas to Improve

• Tends to be a waist bender, which can lead to balance issues against quicker, more technical pass rushers.
• Can struggle with quicker defensive linemen, and will need to continue to refine his footwork and lateral agility to handle collegiate-level speed.
• Overall flexibility and pad level can be inconsistent; needs to focus on playing with better leverage to maximize his natural strength.

College Projection

Smith projects as a potential multi-year starter at the Power Four level. He will likely require a redshirt year to refine his technique, particularly his footwork and pad level, and to adjust to the speed of the college game. His size and strength give him a high floor, and with proper development, he could become an impact player on the interior of the offensive line.

Best Fit

A program that utilizes a gap or power running scheme would be the best fit for Smith's talents, allowing him to excel as a downhill, physical presence. His commitment to Rutgers aligns with a program that values toughness and a strong running game in the Big Ten.