2019 NFL Draft Player Profiles: NIU EDGE Sutton Smith

Quote:His role in the NFL likely boils down to two positions. The first being a backup pass rusher where a coach can try to find a way to help Smith overcome his size with his speed and dip move. The second being an off-ball linebacker where his hustle and tackling consistency can make him a great depth piece. Whether as an off-ball linebacker or backup pass rusher, Smith has the makings of also being a special teams ace.

Projection: Late Day Three

Agree with the Day 3 projection and Special Teams Ace comment.

A late round (6-7) flyer pick on Sutton is easily justified with the (almost) universal projection as an immediate, and impact, Special Teams contributor. This is why I believe he will not go undrafted.

Sutton's biggest potential upside still belongs to a team running a 3-4 Defense, so as stated earlier, that's where I see him ending up.

If I had to narrow down the larger list above, I would say the Steelers, Colts, Chiefs, Falcons, Ravens, and Patriots are among the most likely teams to take a chance on him.

Anyone else care to make a projection?