Getty Image
Edge rusher Nolan Smith is looking to better his draft stock at the NFL Combine. The former No. 1 overall recruit just wrapped up a decorated career at the University of Georgia, helping his team win a pair of national titles over his four-year career.
During his time in Athens, the hybrid lineman/linebacker prospect racked up 110 tackles and 12.5 sacks. He’s now got his eyes set on the next level.
And there’s certainly plenty of interest in the defender.
Smith is currently projected as a late first or early second round pick according to many mock drafts. NFL teams can never have too many pass rushers, and the Bulldogs star certainly fits the mold.
Since leaving Georgia, Smith has been focused on both honing his skills and prepping for testing. That offseason training is obviously paying off after seeing Thursday’s NFL Combine drills.
Nolan Smith posted a blazing 40-yard dash time of 4.44 seconds. It was easily one of the fastest times run by a defensive lineman.
That apparently wasn’t good enough for the soon to be NFL signee. He was visibly frustrated after seeing the time hit the clock.
“I wasn’t even running full speed.”
Nolan Smith ran an insane 4.44u and wasn’t satisfied. @GeorgiaFootball
📺: #NFLCombine on @nflnetwork
📱: Stream on NFL+ pic.twitter.com/VgxkjUNqp6— NFL (@NFL) March 2, 2023
After seeing Smith’s reaction, NFL Network’s Stacey Dales went over to ask why he was upset. Here’s what he had to say about the performance.
“He said, ‘I wasn’t even running full speed.’ He was livid… He told me, ‘I’ve been training in the 4.3s for the 40. That wasn’t up to my standards.'”
Aside from the frustrations, Nolan Smith should provide an NFL team with a speedy pass rushing specialist. He’ll continue to participate in the combine drills as the week goes on.
**Update**
Nolan Smith’s hard work paid off as his official time came in at 4.39. Hopefully that will ease some of his anger.