Where Could IDL Kobe Smith Fit in on Giants D-line?

Kobe Smith, Defensive Tackle

Height: 6-foot-2 | Weight: 312 pounds
2022 Stats: GP: 11 GS: 0, 8 rec 134 yds 16.8 Y/R

New York Giants defensive lineman Kobe Smith, added to the team after the conclusion of the mandatory minicamp, went undrafted in the 2020 NFL Draft but has bounced around the league over the past three seasons. He spent time with the Tennessee Titans (2020), Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2020-21), Philadelphia Eagles (2022), and Atlanta Falcons (2022) in search of making his NFL regular-season debut.

The 6-foot-2, 312-pound defensive lineman played four seasons at South Carolina, where he appeared in 48 games with 17 starts, recording 84 tackles (38 solo), seven tackles for loss, two sacks, and seven quarterback hurries.

Smith is a physical player with good size and strength. The Giants brought him in to bolster the depth and run-stopping effectiveness on the defensive line.

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Best Case Scenario

If you consider that the Giants only play two true down linemen in their defensive front, they are probably not keeping more than 3-deep at the position, and there is no guarantee that six will make the roster.

They have veteran players on the front, so don't expect to see them much during the preseason. This is the best-case scenario for Smith, who has not been given significant playing time to put good film out there for other suitors. This preseason should provide for him to do so, and if he performs well, he could impress another NFL team or organization in another league.

Worst Case Scenario

We have seen these transactional moves happen where the player gets signed but never makes it to training camp. As already noted, Smith was recently signed, which meant the end for another player already on the roster.

This fate could befall Smith, depending on what happens and who becomes available between now and when training camp begins, not just on the defensive line but any position where the team needs additional depth.

Even when camp begins, Smith will probably be on the short list of early camp cuts simply based on the depth of his position. He may never get to show the advancements he has made in his game since college.

What to Expect in 2023

Unfortunately for Smith, the worst-case scenario is the most likely. The Giants have plenty of linemen who can stop the run on the interior. They could use more proven interior pass rushers behind Dexter Lawrence and Leonard Williams. That skill does not fit in with Smith's skill profile.

Even if he has improved as a pass rusher, he probably won't get much of an opportunity to prove it before the Giants move on based on cuts or other players they have an opportunity to sign. You never want to see someone get cut, but Smith will likely be left looking for another home sooner rather than later.

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