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2017 Senior Bowl: 10 NFL Draft Prospects to Watch

By Tyler Brooke

Dec 31, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Ryan Anderson (22) scores a touchdown as defensive back Marlon Humphrey (26) runs alongside during the second quarter in the 2016 CFP Semifinal against the Washington Huskies at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 31, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Ryan Anderson (22) scores a touchdown as defensive back Marlon Humphrey (26) runs alongside during the second quarter in the 2016 CFP Semifinal against the Washington Huskies at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 10, 2016; Champaign, IL, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini defensive lineman Dawuane Smoot (91) tackles North Carolina Tar Heels running back Elijah Hood (34) in the endzone for a safety during the 2nd quarter at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Granse-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 10, 2016; Champaign, IL, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini defensive lineman Dawuane Smoot (91) tackles North Carolina Tar Heels running back Elijah Hood (34) in the endzone for a safety during the 2nd quarter at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Granse-USA TODAY Sports /

The Illinois Fighting Illini aren’t exactly known for producing top-tier NFL talent. That could change this year thanks to the talented pass rusher Dawuane Smoot.

From a box score standpoint, Smoot didn’t really stand out this season. In 12 games, he picked up 15 tackles for loss, five sacks and 10 quarterback hurries. However, when you turn on the tape, Smoot looks like a legitimate future NFL player.

Smoot does a great job of getting off of the snap and staying low so that he can effectively bend the edge. He isn’t the most technical pass rusher, but Smoot does posses a nice spin move that you can see in the video below.

As a pure pass rusher, Smoot is an appealing draft prospect. However, he’s still far from a finished product. The Illinois star struggles with discipline, often leaving his assignment and opening up rushing lanes or opportunities for the opposing QB to escape the pocket. That lack of discipline also hurts Smoot when trying to make plays against the run.

Scouts will be keeping a close eye on Smoot to see whether or not he can be an effective pass rusher against stronger competition. If he can at least do that much, Smoot should solidify himself as a Day 2 prospect.

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