Scouting Report: Keith Smith

by Tom Kowalski
Tuesday June 10, 2008, 6:01 AM


KEITH SMITH 2008 Scouting Report

During the rare times the media is allowed to watch the OTA workouts, Smith showed increasing signs that he'll be the team's best downfield on-ball defender. Smith, who re-signed as an unrestricted free agent, does a very good job of keeping tight coverage, locating the ball and then making a play.

There are a lot of corners who can keep tight coverage but fewer players do a good job – and have the confidence – to turn and locate the ball. Fewer still have the ability to then make a play on the ball.

Smith, though, isn't as consistent on intermediate routes and his biggest problem is in run support - a necessity for a Tampa Two corner. It's not that Smith will shy away from contact or won't stick his nose into the action, but his tackling skills just aren't solid.

A former third-round pick (2004), Smith took a long time to develop, but his progress has been coming more rapidly lately, partly due to the coaching of coordinator Joe Barry and partly due to his own dogged determination. Smith has also been more effective on special teams the last two years and his production there should increase as well.


MY THOUGHTS
Smith also had a year of regression when former d-coordinator Donnie Henderson had Smith in the dog house the whole year. He didnt like him and it showed. Last year with Barry he showed a ton more than what Henderson saw. I really think that Kieth Smith wil be our starting cornerback for years to come. He may not be there this year but i would be suprised if he isnt starting next year.