2021 NFL Draft: Trey Smith an elite offensive line prospect

Injuries are a major concern, but Trey Smith is an extremely talented offensive line prospect in the 2021 NFL Draft class.

The 2021 NFL Draft class is going to be absolutely loaded with exciting offensive line prospects. It all begins with Penei Sewell, but everywhere you look, there is another interesting player up front who has massive upside at the next level. The NFL needs an injection of offensive line talent and the 2021 NFL Draft class could be just what the doctor ordered.

Of all of the talented offensive linemen in the upcoming class, Trey Smith undoubtedly stands out as one of the interesting players. Smith is not a perfect prospect, but he is a ridiculously fun player to watch and it is easy to see how his skills will translate to the next level.

Smith signed with Tennessee as a five-star recruit out of high school. He stepped in and was an immediate impact player for the team, playing inside and outside, before eventually sticking as their left tackle. Smith had a lot of success as the Vols’ starting left tackle in 2017 and 2018, but his sophomore season of 2018 was cut short with scary medical concerns.

Smith had to shut down his 2018 season early when doctors found blood clots in his lungs. This was obviously a scary time for Smith, but he was able to get cleared for the 2019 season and this issue has not popped up again. Obviously, there is a lot of unknown on the medical side of this prospect and this will be a major concern when we evaluate Smith’s 2021 NFL Draft stock.

Smith took his game to the next level in 2019.

However, when Smith returned to the field for Tennessee in 2019, he was better than ever. He kicked inside full time as the Vols’ starting left guard and immediately dominated all season long. Smith is extremely quick off of the ball and ridiculously powerful at the point of attack. He consistently pushes defenders back on contact and keeps his feet moving throughout the block. Smith is an absolute mauler in the running game, clearing out rushing lanes with ease.

As impressive as Smith’s natural power is, do not sleep on his athleticism up front. Smith moves relatively well in space and gets into pass sets quickly. He also shows quick feet, great patience and heavy hands in pass protection. Once Smith anchors in, he is nearly impossible to get off of his spot. He maintains a strong base throughout his pass protection reps and is particularly dominant against power-based players.

Smith is an exciting offensive line prospect who has tremendous upside at the next level. The only real issue here is his health. The blood clots are a real concern, but if Smith can keep that issue in check there is no limit to what he can be. Whether he stays inside or kicks back out to tackle, Smith would be a strong addition to any NFL offensive line.