In the fifth round of the 2023 NFL draft, the Las Vegas Raiders selected Chris Smith II, a First-Team All-American safety from the University of Georgia.
Despite being a fifth-round pick, Smith is primed to have a big impact in 2023. But why?
Fifth-Round Pick Chris Smith II Will Have A Big Impact in 2023
A Defense Lost: The Raiders’ Achilles
It is no secret that the Raiders have been historically bad on the defensive side of the ball for years.
In today’s game, the ability to stop the pass is more valuable than ever. Rule changes that favor wide receivers and quarterbacks have made the NFL a passing league. Further proof of this is the devaluation of the running back position.
In 2022, only the Tennessee Titans, Minnesota Vikings, and Detroit Lions gave up more passing yards than the Raiders.
Las Vegas also ranked last in interception percentage, last in total takeaways, and tied with the Giants for last in interceptions (six). In a division with Patrick Mahomes, Justin Herbert, and Russell Wilson, this is a real problem.
Chris Smith II Offers Defensive Support
The recent signing of free agent Marcus Peters and the drafting of Smith II are signs that the Raiders understand where their weakness lies.
Smith II is a defensive backfield specialist who plays the deep ball as well as any other safety from the 2023 draft class. His anticipation and closing speed allows him to defend the short pass with efficiency and aggression.
However, at 5’11” and 195 pounds, playing near the line in run support may be difficult for him as a rookie.
The former Georgia Bulldog will have a chance to work his way onto the field in two deep safety looks or in nickel packages and obvious passing situations. A read-and-react type player, Smith II’s football IQ and ability to act on instincts will be hard to keep off the field, especially in the pass-happy AFC West.
In 2022, Smith II totaled 61 tackles (45 solo, five for loss), three interceptions, and a sack. He was an AP first-team All-American and a finalist for the Bronko Nagurski Award given to the nation’s top defensive player.
Despite this, the versatile defensive back fell to the fifth round because of his small frame and a disappointing 4.62 40-yard dash at the combine. His size and violent playing style will lead to injuries and his speed may not be enough at the pro level.
With all that said, Smith II is an outstanding football player. His lack of size and speed is offset by his natural ability to play the game. He is a valuable addition to a struggling secondary and will make an immediate impact in 2023.
We got a dawg at safety 🐶@cpsmithdb | #RaiderNation pic.twitter.com/5ndFZK29N7
— Las Vegas Raiders (@Raiders) April 29, 2023
What Chris Smith II Offers Raiders
Through free agency and the draft, the Raiders have focused on improving their lackluster defense.
Defending the pass is step one. Smith II will have an opportunity to contribute early and add a much-needed spark to a defensive backfield that was once home to some of the biggest names in the game. His aggression, ball skills, and high football IQ will make him a key part of this secondary for years to come.
The Raiders, with an improved offense and stellar pass rush, have a chance to shake up the AFC West this year.
A rookie like Smith II will inject new energy, drive, and competitiveness that will push the players around him to take the next step. If the rookie can carve out a role in the secondary, the Raiders will be on their way to solving one of their most significant issues: owning the airspace of Allegiant Stadium and beyond.
Main Photo: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
