Raiders NFL Draft Prospect: S Tykee Smith, Georgia
The Las Vegas Raiders are going to spend the offseason looking for ways to upgrade their roster.
That includes the 2024 NFL Draft, which is teeming with young, talented players. The Raiders improved on defense in 2023 when Interim Coach Antonio Pierce took over, but they could be looking to establish a young core on defense.
That includes adding young pieces to their secondary. The Raiders have several young players in their defensive backfield who make up their core, but they could add a few more to solidify it.
One player who could be a good investment is Georgia’s Tykee Smith. After transferring from West Virginia, Smith finished his collegiate career with 212 career tackles, 21.5 tackles for loss, two forced fumbles, five sacks, 12 passes defended, and eight interceptions.
Smith was named a Second-Team All-SEC in 2023. In February, he will be at the Senior Bowl in Mobile, Ala., and will look to improve his draft stock there.
Smith stands at 5-foot-10 and 205 pounds but looks the part of an NFL player, whether he plays safety or possibly slot cornerback at the next level. While he is a bit shorter, he is one of the best tacklers in the draft class, wrapping up consistently and stopping ball carriers in their tracks.
The Las Vegas Raiders could take a hard look at Georgia's Tykee Smith in the 2024 NFL Draft.
John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports
Smith has the physical build of a safety but played lots of slot corner with the Bulldogs. According to Pro Football Focus, Smith played 434 snaps there. His versatility could be enticing to the Raiders if they decide to add him to their secondary.
His play style projects him as a safety at the next level, as he likes to hit and be physical. Smith may be one of the best hitting defensive backs in the draft class.
Smith is a good, not great, coverage player, as his size sometimes causes him trouble. This means he would likely not be a slot corner at the next level. He moves well, but his small frame causes him to lose leverage against bigger receivers while working downfield.
Smith projects to be a third-round selection, and the Raiders have the No. 77 overall selection in that round. The Raiders could take a hard look at Smith if they want to bolster their secondary.
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