The last time the Green Bay Packers drafted a player out of Southern Methodist University was 1982 when they selected kicker Eddie Garcia with the 264th overall pick.
Two prospects could be on Green Bay’s radar to end that streak. Let’s take a look at them before SMU takes on Penn State in the first round of the College Football Playoff on Saturday. Kickoff is scheduled for 11 a.m. CT
Brashard Smith, RB
Josh Jacobs could go down as the best offensive free agent signing in franchise history. The former Alabama running back has been a workhorse for the Packers and at 26 years old, he figures to handle the majority of carries in Green Bay for the foreseeable future.
With Jacobs, MarShawn Lloyd and Chris Brooks all under contract beyond this season, it’s safe to assume the Packers won’t use a premium pick on the running back position. That shifts our focus to Day 3 targets. That’s where Smith enters into the conversation.
A converted wide receiver, Smith has rushed for 1,270 yards and 14 touchdowns during his first season at running back. The Miami transfer has also hauled in 35 receptions for 303 yards and four touchdowns.
Smith is a fluid athlete who can string together moves to weave through traffic. As a former wide receiver, he can track the ball away from his body and catch and go without throttling down.
The SMU running back brings special teams value as a returner. At Miami in 2023, Smith led the ACC in kick return yards (579) and average (29).
Elijah Roberts, Edge
Roberts looks good off the bus. Standing at nearly 6-4 and 275 pounds, Roberts has an ideal frame. Since transferring from Miami in 2023, Roberts has recorded 15.5 sacks and 128 pressures. Roberts rushes with power and drives through offensive linemen to disrupt the action.