by Imran Tahir, 1/11/08.  Kevin Smith has made an abrupt about-face on his future, and now intends to declare for the 2008 Draft. While this decision will definitely catch many by surprise given Smith’s previous declared intention to remain in school for his Senior season, the extraordinarily productive Smith did not have much reason to return to school aside from the opportunity to set yet more school and (possibly) NCAA records. In other words, Smith has accomplished all that he can on his path toward the NFL, and a return to school would only open him up to the risk of an injury that could both depress his Draft stock and adversely affect his ability to succeed in the NFL. It is true that Smith faces very, very steep competition at the RB position in this year’s Draft, and as of now, stands virtually no chance to be a 1st Round pick. Smith does not appear to possess great open-field speed, and his gaudy statistics were for the most part recorded against below-average Conference USA competition. Smith does have good field vision and cutting ability, but his Draft grade will largely be determined by his 40-yard dash time. If Smith runs a 4.5 time or better, he stands a solid chance to be selected by the end of Round 2.