Telvin Smith was 17th Ranked 4-3 Outside Linebacker in 2014

As we’ve periodically reviewed some of the offseason posts by other writers around the internet, it’s becoming increasingly obvious that most national analysts don’t have a high opinion of the Jacksonville roster. Matt Miller over at Bleacher Report has already given his opinion on Jacksonville’s quarterbacks, running backs, wide receivers, tight ends, and centers, and now he’s taking a look at the 4-3 outside linebackers around the league.

"17. Telvin Smith, Jacksonville JaguarsTelvin Smith (6’3”, 218 lbs, one season) lacks the size and block-shedding ability to work regularly as a pass-rusher but can be dangerous if left unaccounted for as a blitzer…Smith’s speed gives him the potential to become a great coverage linebacker, as he can run down the field with just about anyone…Despite being built more like a safety than a linebacker, Smith is an aggressive run defender who is unafraid to attack downhill…Fifth-round picks usually don’t see much playing time in their rookie seasons, but Smith saw plenty, as he started nine of the Jacksonville Jaguars’ final 12 games. He fell in the draft because of his lack of size, but his athleticism is a huge asset. He projects to be a key player for the Jaguars defense going forward.Overall – 74/100"

Smith was part of a wholesale youth movement on the Jaguars roster last year, and he should be one of the building blocks on defense moving forward. As Miller notes, Smith showed the ability to play well in coverage and against the run, making him a perfect 3-down outside linebacker. His size no longer appears to be a big concern and he should be able to play even faster with another offseason to learn this defensive scheme.

Smith is yet another mid-to-late round contributor general manager David Caldwell has managed to find in the draft, but Smith needs to become more than just a contributor – he needs to become a playmaker.

Next: Telvin Smith Most Underrated Jaguar

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