|
|
Chau Smith-Wade Scouting Report
By Charlie Campbell
Strengths:
- Aggressive defensive back
- Attacks downhill
- Willing tackler
- Good tackling technique
- Physical gritty defender
- Instincts
- Good read-and-react skills
- Overachiever
- Could be solid contributor on special teams
Weaknesses:
- Undersized
- Short
- Underweight
- Not especially fast
- Lacks long speed; could struggle to to run with speed receivers
- Will have issues with receivers making catches over him
- Limited to being a slot corner
Prospect Summary:
During the 2023 season, some team sources told me they were impressed with Smith-Wade and thought he could be a nice mid-round value. As a senior, Smith-Wade recorded 36 tackles, zero interceptions and six passes defended. In 2022, he totaled 43 tackles with two interceptions, 10 passes broken up and three forced fumbles.
On the positive side, there is no doubt that Smith-Wade has quality instincts. His route recognition is advanced, and he seems to be a step ahead with his ability to get in position to make plays for his defense. Even though Smith-Wade lacks size, he is a physical defender who scraps and is a willing tackler in the ground game.
While Smith-Wade is an instinctive defender, he faces real skill-set limitations for the NFL. Smith-Wade is short, and he lacks special speed to make up for his size. As a pro, he could lack the fluidity of movement and may lack the gears to be a cover corner in the slot. He also may not have the deep speed that teams like their cornerbacks to possess. Given his short stature, Smith-Wade is always going to have issues with defenders making catches over him. As a pro, Smith-Wade’s best fit could come as a nickel corner. He might need developmental time, but he could turn into a starting nickel eventually.
For the 2024 NFL Draft, Smith-Wade looks like a third- or fourth-round pick.
Prospect Comparison:
Elijah Molden. Smith-Wade is similar to Molden coming out of Washington in 2021. Holden is a rotational slot corner who can contribute in his role. As a pro, I think Smith-Wade could become a better version and turn into a starting nickel in time.
RELATED LINKS:
2024 NFL Mock Draft - April 23
NFL Power Rankings - Feb. 22
Fantasy Football Rankings - Feb. 19
NFL Picks - Feb. 12
