When you think of college football programs that pump out NFL talent, Guilford College is probably not going to cross your mind. I’d be impressed if someone could point it out on a map.
Regardless of whether it’s a football powerhouse or not, there is certainly talent to be found on this team. Most notably, wide receiver Adam Smith.
At 5’10, he’s certainly not going to be the biggest guy on the field. That doesn’t affect his mentality on the field, as he fights for every yard like he’s 6’5.
Because of his size, he’s best suited to play in the slot. Coming out of the slot, he shows very good route running and the ability to make plays. He had 18 touchdowns in his final season, many of which came by him extending broken plays down the field.
With the size and playing ability, he reminds me of Danny Amendola.
I talked to Adam and learned about himself and his game:
When did you know you wanted to be a football player?
I knew I wanted to be a football player when I was in the 1st grade and volunteered to be a waterboy for my school’s little league team until I was old enough to play.
Where did your love for football develop?
My deep love for football developed as a sophomore in high school. I always loved the game, but as my body and talents began to develop is when I fell in love.
Is there a coach who’s had a strong impact on your life and career?
A high school coach, DeVore Holman, has strongly impacted my life on and off of the field.
What is your biggest strength as a player?
My biggest strength is my speed and knowledge of the game.
What is your biggest weakness as a player?
My biggest weakness is the perception of my size. I’m 5’10, 186 pounds and that is frowned upon a bit. But I’ve always thought if someone can produce, it doesn’t matter what they look like.
What factored into your increased scoring rate in your final two years? You went from having 13 touchdowns your first two years then 33 your junior and senior years.
My hard work in the offseason was the biggest contributor in my increased production in my final two seasons at Guilford. After only playing wide receiver my freshman and sophomore year, I learned quickly. A ton of credit goes to my coaches and teammates for helping me learn my craft. But all in all, my coaches trusted me to make plays and I worked my tail off to be the best individual and team player I could be.
Who was your favorite team growing up?
I was always a fan of the Rams when Marshall Faulk was playing, then jumped on the Patriots bandwagon because of their offense.
Which team would you most like to play for?
I would be extremely thankful to play for any team. It would be really cool to play for the Panthers, and sort of play in front of a hometown crowd at home games.
Last year a lot of small-school prospects were drafted. What does that mean to you going through this process?
It means that I actually have a shot. It gives me motivation that small-school athletes are earning respect and making an impact at the next level.
What is your biggest motivation through this whole process?
My biggest motivation throughout this process is simply chasing my dream. I don’t want to work a job that I don’t love doing on a daily basis. I love football and that love has motivated me more than anything.
Who is your favorite NFL player, active or retired?
I’d have to say it’s Odell Beckham Jr right now. He’s extremely fun to watch.
Have you had much contact with NFL teams and what projections are they giving you?
My agent has talked to multiple teams on my behalf and they are thinking I could be a free agent pickup or a camp invite.
What role do you see your self playing on an NFL roster?
I could see myself being a special teams player at first but earning my way into the offensive rotation as a dependable and threatening wide receiver.
If football doesn’t work out, what’s your plan for life?
I want to coach college football and eventually open up an athletic specific training facility when football is all said and done for me.
Like Adam said, chances are he will not be drafted this spring. I see him as someone who can flash potential on a scout team and maybe break into a 53 man roster late in the season as a special teams contributor.
Thank you to Adam and his agent Brandon Taylor of EMG for their cooperation and timely responses during a very hectic time of the year.