Donovan Smith OG Penn State #76
Wt: 338
Size/Athleticism: Impressive size. Weighed 338 at combine but dropped 10 pounds for Pro Day. Not only has height and weight, but also impressive length with 34 3/8″ arms.
Pass Protection: Mobility was limited as a left tackle and his technique further left him susceptible to counter moves. Quick to get set, but the doesn’t react quickly enough to more athletic edge-rushers. Does not have ideal change-of-direction ability for a tackle. Plays too high and won’t be able to get away with it in the pros when he isn’t the bigger and strongest man on the field. Handles bull rushers fairly well, which should translate to a shift to guard.
Run Blocking: Very quick to the second level for a man his size, which bodes well for a smooth transition to guard. Strong lower body allows him to generate a decent push.
Intangibles: Has been labeled as lazy by some scouts.
Durability: Missed two games with undisclosed injury in 2014.
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Overview: Smith would probably be viewed in a different light if he weren’t forced to play left tackle at Penn State. He has the size and lower body strength to develop into a dominant guard at the next level. He flashed some brilliant moments against Joey Bosa in the 2014 Ohio State game which bodes well for his transition to guard where he’ll face more powerful pass-rushers like Bosa, as opposed to speed-rushers on the edge. He has to answer questions regarding his perceived laziness, but there is definite upside for him as a starting right tackle and a potentially elite ceiling as an interior lineman.