Gang Green Nation
Taking a look at a Jets linebacker prospect
The New York Jets recently signed former South Carolina State linebacker Aaron “Boog” Smith as an undrafted free agent. Today we break Smith down in detail.
The 22-year old Smith is listed at 6’2” and 230 pounds and was an all-MEAC first-team selection last season after racking up 95 tackles. He was a three-year starter for the Bulldogs.
Background
Smith was a two-star wide receiver prospect coming out of high school, but his first season at SC State was disrupted by the pandemic in 2020, as he made the transition to the defensive side of the ball.
In 2021, he played in a rotational role, registering 22 tackles and an interception in 11 games as he earned his first career start in the season finale.
From 2022 onwards, he was a full-time starter, racking up 50 tackles, eight tackles for loss and three sacks in his first year within that role. He posted similar numbers in 2023 with 45 tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks and earned all-MEAC second-team recognition.
2024 saw him earn first team recognition as he had 95 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss and an interception.
At the end of the 2024 season Smith was invited to Shrine Bowl week, although he was unable to participate due to injury. However, based on conversations with teams at his pro day, Smith learned that multiple teams had a mid-round grade on him.
After Smith went undrafted, the Jets signed him to an undrafted free agent deal with $75K of guaranteed money.
Let’s move on to some more in-depth analysis of what Smith brings to the table as a player, based on extensive research and film study.
Measurables/Athleticism
Smith, who has slightly below average size and length, had a solid pro day, which saw him impress scouts as he was clocked at 4.58 in the 40-yard dash (although the official time released was 4.69).
He posted some other good numbers with a 35-inch vertical, 123-inch broad jump and 25 bench press reps. However, his agility numbers were slightly below average.
Usage
Smith primarily had the middle linebacker role and control of the headset in his last two years with the Bulldogs, although he played the Will linebacker role in 2022 and worked in both in 2023.
2024 saw him matching up in the slot more often and creeping up to the edge of the line a lot less than in the past.
As noted, he played wide receiver in high school.
Run defense
Smith has been a productive run defender, especially in his final season. He will need to get better at avoiding or shedding blocks, but he can attack the line of scrimmage aggressively to make plays and is good in pursuit.
Coverage skills
Smith gave up a catch on 80 percent of his targets over the course of his career, but that was a product of him typically being employed underneath to limit yardage after the catch on...
