In a draft class loaded with receiver talent, Texas A&M wideout Ainias Smith is the next to hear his name called. Selected with the No. 152 overall pick in the fifth round of the 2024 NFL Draft by the Philadelphia Eagles.
Smith was a versatile weapon during his five years with the Aggies making an impact in the passing game, the rushing attack, and the return game. Earning All-SEC First-Team honors last season in the All-Purpose and Return Specialist categories following a breakout season in College Station.
At 5-foot-9, 190 pounds Smith makes up for his lack of size with big-time, explosive play. Putting his speed and quickness on display best last season where he had a career-high 53 receptions for 795 yards along with two scores. Also returning 22 punts for 285 yards and a return for a touchdown plus eight kickoff returns for 103 yards.
Smith also made an impact in the run game throughout his college career after playing running back in high school. Handed the rock 72 times for 405 rushing yards and four touchdowns on the ground. With the all-purpose yardage monster ending his college career as the only 2,000-yard receiver in SEC history to also have up at least 250 rushing, punt return, and kickoff return yards.
Smith played high school football at Dulles High School in Sugar Land (TX) where he was a three-star prospect, ranked the No. 769 overall recruit and the No. 61 running back in the country in the 2019 cycle according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies.
What NFL Draft analysts are saying about Ainias Smith
There’s no doubt that Smith was a unique NFL prospect given his size and skill after playing the role of a Swiss army knife for Texas A&M’s offense. With NFL analyst Lance Zierlein comparing him to Christian Kirk as a slot receiver that can play a multitude of roles in his new offense.
“Slot receiver with a somewhat unusual blend of elusiveness and power when the ball is in his hands. Smith is fine as a possession slot who can run more complicated routes underneath while also offering the courage to work successfully into the middle of the field. The route running is good but has room to get even better with more polish,” Zierlein said. “However, his true calling might be as a gadget guy. He expands play-calling options with his ability as an occasional ball-carrier and open-field explorer, where the quick game and West Coast routes would allow him to get the ball in his hands and do his thing.”
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