With the 2024 NFL Draft over, it’s time for some film rooms on the Philadelphia Eagles’ rookie class. In the upcoming weeks, I will be covering all nine draft picks and some UDFAs. Many scouting reports may sound similar, so I have included film clips to provide a more comprehensive analysis, along with discussing the player’s fit with the Eagles. While I have access to All22 for several rookies, I cannot share those clips on Twitter to avoid blocking risks, so I will utilize content from other accounts. Let’s dive in!
Previously in this series: Quinyon Mitchell / Cooper DeJean / Jalyx Hunt / Will Shipley
RAS
Despite being lower compared to other Eagles’ picks, the player still showcases good athleticism.
Strengths
+ Dangerous weapon with the ball in his hands. Excels in manufactured touches like jet sweeps and screens, possessing versatility with 49 carries in 2019.
Here’s a highlight reel showcasing his ability to create YAC and elude defenders.
+ Explosive in short areas and displays great lateral movement.
+ While not a deep threat, he can beat corners with a free release.
+ Demonstrates quickness at the top of routes and shows nuances in route running. Check out the clip below for a closer look at his route-running skills.
+ Capable of turning short plays into explosive gains by making defenders miss and creating YAC.
Ainias Smith is going to do so well in one-on-ones down in Mobile next week.
One of the more dynamic players in the draft
YAC ability with elusiveness makes him lethal in the right offense that can utilize it
Underrated route runner pic.twitter.com/zzsTODvydf— Andrew Harbaugh (@MandrewNFL) January 26, 2024
+ Brings special teams and kick return experience, aligning with the Eagles’ draft class strategy.
+ Displays willingness to block despite his size.
+ Fearless in absorbing hits and capable of making tough catches in traffic.
Weaknesses
– Limited catch radius due to arm length and size, projecting as a slot receiver.
– Not a burner down the field, showcasing more quickness in short areas. A 4.55 40 time at 190lbs isn’t exceptional.
I thought Kamren Kinchens looked the part today—Safety is a tough position to shine at in Mobile, but Kinchens has the speed to run deep with Ainias Smith and squeezed the margins well on this play.
Would hope the #Bears are all over the American team Safety group. pic.twitter.com/2XTPKf4NYf
— Robert Schmitz (@robertkschmitz) January 30, 2024
– His size limits his ability to block in the running game against physical defensive backs and linebackers.
– Injury history raises concerns, possibly linked to his playing style and physicality due to size.
Overall
Despite missing him in my initial analysis, I had a gut feeling that Ainias Smith would become an Eagles target. He seems like a perfect fit for Kellen Moore’s offense, offering a similar profile to Parris Campbell. While his size may limit him to the slot, Smith could evolve into a WR3/4 in this system. The challenge lies in his lack of versatility to play outside, a common requirement in modern offenses moving players across formations. Additionally, his size may hamper his blocking abilities, affecting his playing time in run-heavy schemes like the Eagles’.
Despite these limitations, I anticipate Smith making the roster and contributing as the season progresses through manufactured touches and special teams duties. His selection in round 5 appears sensible, adding an explosive athlete to the team. While his impact in fantasy football may be limited, his real-life value could surpass expectations, making him a valuable asset for the offense. He may not reach WR1/2 status but has the potential to be a significant contributor.
Thank you for reading! For more content, my podcast with Shane has moved to a network, which you can find here. Named after my favorite Eagles’ run play, the podcast features my British accent and a Patreon for additional support. Your listenership is greatly appreciated!
