2014 NFL Draft Profile: Telvin Smith, OLB Florida State

Nov 9, 2013; Winston-Salem, NC, USA; Florida State Seminoles linebacker Telvin Smith (22) stands on the sidelines during the first half against the Wake Forest Demon Deacons at BB&T Field. Florida State defeated Wake Forest 59-3. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports

Florida State outside linebacker Telvin Smith is perhaps the most interesting prospect in this year’s draft that isn’t being talked about often enough.  Despite only having one year of starting experience at outside linebacker at FSU, he is so committed to the position that he refuses to play in a different spot at the NFL level.

Some teams may see Telvin Smith’s unwillingness to change as dedication and focus while others may see it as being stubborn. He has advanced from special teams, to a rotational position, to full time starter over his college career.  It is fairly clear that he adapts well to new situations, but he must enjoy his current position enough not to want to change again.

Smith stands 6’3″ tall and weighs in at 218 pounds, but has a frame that could allow him to add more bulk to add to his durability and help out the physical aspects of his game.  That’s not to say that the physical part of his game lacks in any way currently.  He seems to seek contact when necessary and accelerates well into impacts.

Here are his statistics over 4 years at Florida State:

Jan 2, 2014; Newport Beach, CA, USA; Florida State Seminoles linebacker Telvin Smith at the 2014 BCS National Championship press conference at Newport Beach Marriott. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

54 games played

139 solo tackles

214 total tackles

29 tackles for a loss

7 sacks

4 interceptions

2 defensive touchdowns

11 passes defended

2 forced fumbles

Telvin Smith’s final year at Florida State was by far his best campaign.  He accumulated 90 tackles, 2 sacks, and 3 interceptions.  Smith is just recently coming into his own at the position and could be a unique talent to draft and develop at outside linebacker.

Strengths

• Very aggressive
• Quick acceleration
• Not afraid of contact
• Football smart

Weaknesses

• Unwilling to change positions
• One year NCAA starter
• Needs to bulk up for NFL
• Could be too scheme dependent for many teams

Fit For The Vikings

Minnesota will be looking to add competition for the current group of linebackers in Minnesota often in this draft.

My Take

Telvin Smith could be an option for the Vikings if he somehow slips to the end of the third round.  He would provide instant competition for current favorite Gerald Hodges on the outside.