When it comes to wide receivers in this year’s NFL Draft class, it’s all about the top three: DeVonta Smith, Jaylen Waddle and Ja’Marr Chase. Most have Chase as the best receiver in the NFL Draft, but Smith and Waddle are both elite prospects, too.
Smith is the reigning Heisman Trophy winner after catching 117 passes for 1,856 yards and 23 touchdowns last season, proving to be the best wideout in college football. But where will he be drafted Thursday evening when the first round of the NFL Draft begins?
Let’s dive in on Smith’s projected landing spot based on NFL Draft odds and betting lines.
NFL Draft odds: DeVonta Smith draft position
- Over 11.5: -140
- Under 11.5: +110
Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated Thursday at 2 p.m. ET.
If not for size concerns, Smith would have a much stronger case to be the first wide receiver drafted. But at 166 pounds, teams might be worried about durability and how well he’ll hold up over the course of a 17-game season. That shouldn’t preclude them from taking him early, though. Smith dominated the last two years at Alabama, scoring 37 touchdowns and racking up more than 3,100 yards receiving.
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His Over/Under is sandwiched between the Giants and Eagles, both of whom could take him at No. 11 and 12, respectively. If the Eagles want him, they might even consider trading up into the top 10. The Giants are a great landing spot for Smith, too, especially if both CB Patrick Surtain II and Jaycee Horn are gone. I’m taking the UNDER at 11.5 with Smith, as he has a good chance to go in the top 10 with Chase and potentially even Waddle.
Smith will have a successful NFL career thanks to his hands, route running and speed on the outside, and teams will look past his weight early in the draft.
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