Smoke Monday NFL Draft Overview
Position: Safety
Height: 6’2”
Weight: 207 pounds
School: Auburn
Quindarious “Smoke” Monday is a senior coming out of Auburn University into the 2022 NFL Draft. He started his final two years playing for the Tigers after coming off the bench in his sophomore year. His freshman year showcased his talents in the special teams aspect of the game. No matter where he played, Smoke made his presence known on the field. During his time on special teams, he blocked a kick in the Iron Bowl vs. Alabama. Every year since his sophomore year, Smoke has found a way to put points on the board from the defensive side of the ball. He ended his Auburn career with 172 tackles (106 solos), 17 tackles for loss, and six sacks. As far as disruptions, he added five interceptions, 13 pass deflections, one forced fumble, and three touchdowns.
Smoke is a raw prospect in terms of what he brings to a franchise on day one. This is not to say that there is not a ton to be excited about. From his explosion at the point of attack to his passion on the field. But if he wants to be a consistent player in the NFL, he has to improve in some areas in his game. Where his aggressiveness is one of the things you love about his game, it is very much his downfall as well. There are too many times where he will look to make the big play or the big hit instead of executing his assignment. Although he has above-average speed, he does not have the recovery speed to make up for such mistakes. He lacks discipline in zone coverage, especially with a quarterback with running ability.
Strengths
- Ideal size for a safety at the next level
- Explosive at the point of attack while tackling
- Has a knack for rushing the passer/running the alley in the run game
- Fearless against offensive lineman. Thrives as the seventh or eighth man in the box
- Passion for the game is adamant in every play/interview
Weaknesses
- Aggressiveness tends to take him out of the play, especially with play-action/quarterbacks outside of the pocket
- Does not look comfortable in man situations, especially outside of the box
- Lacks recovery speed if beat vertically
- Attempts to deliver the big hit when the play can be made by just wrapping up.
- Stiff hips hinder coverage ability.
NFL Comparison: Hamsah Nasrildeen
Teams with Need at the Position: Houston Texans, Detroit Lions, Atlanta Falcons, Jacksonville Jaguars, Philadelphia Eagles, Washington Commanders
SMOKE MONDAY 100-YARD PICK-SIX 💨💨 pic.twitter.com/dHEsX7bzYT
— SEC Network (@SECNetwork) November 22, 2020
If a team needs depth at the safety position, Smoke Monday is the right player for them. He is a project, though, that needs to be developed as he needs to learn to channel his aggressive nature. His games against Mississippi State and Penn State outlined his lapses in coverage. However, with his passion and love for the game, he will be a great special teams player until he is ready to contribute on the defensive side of football.
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