Jason Smith Sold Rams With Passion
By Jeff Gordon
Billy Devaney admits that Eugene Monroe would have been an out-of-the-box left tackle, ready to go from Day One.
Smith, who came to Baylor as a defensive end, moved to tight end and played both tackles. Baylor played in a spread offense, so he spent a lot of time playing upright.
He will need more work. “His potential is good now,” Devaney said. “His potential is outstanding.”
But the football people fell in love with Smith’s persona and potential. So Smith rose to the top of the draft board this week.
“Just the mentality this guy plays with,” Devaney said. “We’ve been stressing the smart part, the passionate part, the productive part. He’s off the charts in those categories.
“We just thought for what we’re trying to put together here, he’s the perfect fit for us. I think you’ll enjoy the person. He’s an outgoing, fun-loving guy that takes football very, very seriously.
“So we couldn’t be an happier to have a guy like Jason Smith on the Rams.”
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Will Smith Play LT or RT? Stay Tuned
By Jeff Gordon
Many experts believe Jason Smith will develop into a dominant left tackle in the NFL. Trouble is, Alex Barron is better on the left side than right.
So which player will play which side?
Coach Steve Spagnuolo isn’t writing anything in ink just yet.
“It’s like any other team you put together,” he said. “You get him in here, we’ll do what’s best. You have to give us a little time to get him in helmets and pads first. We’ll work all that out. He’ll give us a little bit of versatility and another quality player.
“Anything is possible.”
What did Smith believe is his best position?
“Football,” Jason said. “I can play wherever they put me.”
-04-26-2009, 01:33 AM
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