The reigning Heisman trophy recipient DeVonta Smith could be the first receiver selected in the 2021 NFl draft. Where might he land? No one can be sure until draft night.
While mock drafts are constantly being published, one analyst, Cynthia Frelund of NFL.com, decided to write about the best potential fit for each wide receiver, including Alabama’s DeVonta Smith and Jaylen Waddle.
Frelund’s best fit for Smith: the Detroit Lions.
She explains why Smith to the Lions is a great fit for both parties:
“Smith’s consistent route running and ability to earn separation give him the highest projected floor and ceiling in this class of wideouts,” writes Frelund. “The Heisman Trophy winner had the highest percentage of receptions in which he had more than 3 feet of separation at the time of the catch despite a defender being within 3 feet of him on the path of the route. This advantage carries over into yards after the catch; Smith’s ability to increase his speed once he had the ball in his hands was the third-best in the FBS this season. Pro Football Focus measured him as the most effective receiver against press coverage across the board in 2020, with Smith leading the FBS in receptions (65), receiving yards (1,144) and TDs (13) against press.
“Any receiver who ends up in Detroit will likely be asked to help raise the Leos’ deep-passing potential, given the free agency departure of Kenny Golladay. PFF shows that Smith led the FBS in receptions (15), receiving yards (589) and receiving TDs (8) on targets of 20-plus yards in 2020. Should Smith end up in Detroit, don’t be surprised if he leads all rookie receivers in yards. (Hint, hint: You’d be wise to snag him to beat your friends in fantasy.)”