HBCU Football: Top 10 undrafted NFL free agent signees in 2021
By Dante Pryor
5. Kion Smith, OT, Fayetteville State (Falcons)
Kion Smith, much like Jimmie Robinson, benefitted greatly from the HBCU combine in Birmingham. It was the all-star game circuit that got Kion Smith on the NFL’s radar. Not only was this draft deep at offensive tackle, but Smith was not that widely known coming from a small HBCU.
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Despite not being drafted, Smith was signed by the Atlanta Falcons. The Falcons will love Smith’s disposition and approach to playing offensive line. Though a tackle at Fayetteville State, Smith projects as an interior lineman in the NFL.
Smith has the mental make-up of a guard as well. He is ornery and physical, and that will translate in the interior. However, his size will make him hard to move at the next level. Smith uses his hands well and is an excellent drive blocker in the run game.
Atlanta should be most excited about the fact that even at 6-foot-5 and 295 pounds, Smith has room to grow and get stronger. It is hard to know where the floor is with Smith, but the ceiling is high for the CIAA alum.
Smith should make the Falcons’ roster and be a project for a year or two, though Smith’s most significant need is the adjustment from Division II to the NFL.