There’s no uniform way to make it in the NFL. There’s no college, no coach, no trainer that can turn a prospect into a contributing player. The success of a player in this league comes down to the person himself and how much he’s willing to do to make it.
Xavier Smith embodies that notion as he has not let physical limitations, nor the opinions of others derail his dream of making it to the NFL. Despite standing at 5-foot-9, 176 pounds, Smith has been willing to absorb contact and put himself in some of the most dangerous jobs in football, with the price he pays leading directly to the team’s success.
Smith has operated as the team’s primary punt returner since Week 3 of this season. He has also worked on kick returns, as well. However, Smith may have found another permanent role for himself.
Smith has excelled since being moved to gunner. One of the primary reasons for the Rams’ win against Arizona, Smith played a pivotal role in containing the Cardinals’ return while helping pin Arizona inside their own 20. Smith’s speed matches up with Ethan Evans’ average punt distance, making the Rams’ special teams unit a dangerous and game-changing threat.
It was his speed and ball skills that helped him catch one of Evans’ punts inside the 5-yard line against the Cardinals on Saturday night, pinning Arizona deep and leading to a drive that barely went anywhere.
Smith is also a natural wide receiver so he adds depth to that room while being a perfect player to scheme a fake punt around.
Smith is a cheap, viable option who fills four different roles by himself. That’s as bang for your buck as it gets and at 27 years old, Smith has a lot of football left in him.