2009 NFL Draft - Alphonso Smith Scouting Report
by Clint Clearwater
NFL Draft Analyst


Prospect:  Alphonso Smith, CB, Wake Forest
Ht: 5'9 Wt: 193 40: 4.56

Strengths: Smith possess exceptional cover skills, and is easily one of the best cover corners in this year’s draft.  Even though he ran a very average 40 time at the combine, he plays with great speed on the field.  He knows how to read the quarterback and has great hands.  His 21 career interceptions,(most in the ACC) proves this.  Smith does a stellar job at recognizing and jumping routes and also reading plays.     

Weaknesses: Smith's most notable weakness is he is only 5-9 - not the ideal height for a corner.  Needs to put on weight\muscle.  He is a very inconsistent tackler.  One play he will show great tackling technique, and another he will show very poor tackling technique.  Occasionally, he will wait for the big hit, instead of attacking. 

Summary: Alphonso Smith is an excellent cover corner with a deadly ability to read and quickly react to plays.  He has probably the best hands for a CB in the draft.  He really needs to improve his run support and tackling.  Although, he is a relatively short CB, this young man can play football.  He plays with emotion, intensity and stamina.  Many professional teams will see his ability and he will probably be drafted anywhere from #22 to #41. 

Draft Projection: Late 1st - early 2nd round


Last updated - 3/25/09


• Abromowitz's 2009 NFL Mock Draft
• Cox's 2009 NFL Mock Draft
• Donnelly's 2009 NFL Mock Draft 
• Mock Draft Database