I didn't expect to see Jason Smith, of all people, walking through the Saints' doors but this is a very intriguing development. Smith is 26 and was drafted as the 2nd overall pick – yes you read that correctly – just 4 years ago. He spent three concussion filled seasons with the Rams and was largely a bust before playing for the Jets last year and never really panning out. He did grade favorably on PFF despite just over 200 snaps as a backup, with solid grades associated with both run blocking and pass protection.
Coming out of college, Smith was lauded as being one of the next tackle greats in the game. He signed a 1 year deal with the Saints for what I can only assume is very little, in an effort to resurrect his career I'm sure. He was said to lose passion and commitment to the game over his head issues which led some to believe he would retire young, but it looks like he's ready to give it another shot with the Saints and compete for the left tackle starting position. If he is healthy and fit he will win that battle hands down. If not, his career will continue down the path it's on. Either way, this is a low risk investment with a possible very high return, so I love it. I'm not expecting much and you shouldn't either, because his track record says he'll be hurt or underperforming by training camp, but when right he's got enough potential to be extremely good. He was drafted as a left tackle and has played in 45 NFL games, starting 26, at both left and right tackle. He has never lived up to his draft status even when healthy. At the very least this is nice depth to have.
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