DeVonta Smith, Heisman Trophy winner and freak wide receiver, might not weigh enough

NFL scouts are undefeated in finding reasons to nitpick at talent. Whether it’s the fake smile of Cam Newton, or “system quarterback” Aaron Rodgers, there will never seem to be a player that meets all the standards of those grading them — be they self-chosen or from teams themselves.

Enter the case of Heisman Trophy winner DeVonta Smith, he of the dislocated finger that cut short his national championship game against Ohio State after 2.5 quarters of football. You might remember that game as the one where he caught TWELVE PASSES FOR TWO HUNDRED AND FIFTEEN YARDS AND THREE TOUCHDOWNS ON THE BIGGEST STAGE IN THE SPORT IN LESS THAN 38 MINUTES.

But apparently that’s not enough for some in the professional scouting community, as this is a take that’s an actual thing.

My title around here is Deputy College Sports Editor, so I might be a bit biased in favor of those of us that watch more college football than our significant others would like. I work from home and replay games on my main TV while writing during the week. I drink unconscionable amounts of coffee during Saturdays. I do a film room breakdown with a former college coach each week to learn as much as I can about this insane, beautiful, and rather corrupt sport I love to the core of my being.

My dudes: Just watch the tape.

This guy is a freak that can run all the routes and make all the catches. He goes over the middle. He can be physical. He’s got speed. He separates on the best DB’s in America. And who gives a damn if he doesn’t want to perform at your dog and pony show.

Don’t overthink it, and take the best receiver that played in 2020. If you want Ja’Marr Chase, that’s fine as well. But let’s not tax a guy that was possibly the most dominant skill-position player in college football because he felt a few pounds light in January.