An NFL Draft Prospect Jokes About the Playstyle of Eagles Edge Nolan Smith

In the world of the NFL Draft, a select group of players stand out as potential stars in the making, with their individual talents being dissected and analyzed by scouts, coaches, and media alike. One such player who has made waves in the pre-draft process is Nolan Smith, the explosive edge rusher who played for the Georgia Bulldogs before declaring for the 2023 NFL Draft. Smith’s unique blend of athleticism, agility, and pass-rushing ability has made him one of the most talked-about defensive prospects, earning a spot among the elite prospects that teams are targeting in the upcoming draft.

However, in the midst of all the attention surrounding Smith’s talents, there’s an interesting angle that has emerged involving another NFL draft prospect—one who is jokingly trying to compare his own playstyle to that of the Eagles’ edge rusher. In an interview that combines humor with an insightful look into the mindset of young athletes, the prospect takes some playful jabs at the way Nolan Smith plays the game, all while recognizing the enormous respect he has for the Georgia product’s abilities.

In this article, we will dive into the humorous exchange between the NFL Draft prospect and his comparisons to Nolan Smith’s playstyle. We will also take a closer look at what makes Smith’s style so effective, how this interaction sheds light on the future of NFL edge rushers, and the implications it has for the draft class as a whole.

Nolan Smith’s Rise to Stardom

Before delving into the lighthearted banter between draft prospects, it’s essential to recognize who Nolan Smith is and why he’s one of the most intriguing defensive players to emerge in recent years. A product of the powerhouse Georgia Bulldogs, Smith was a force on the edge of their defense, consistently making plays and wreaking havoc in the backfield. He was widely regarded as one of the most explosive pass rushers in the country during his time at Georgia, and his draft stock only rose with his strong performances in both the SEC and in national championship games.

At 6-foot-2 and 238 pounds, Smith might not have the prototypical size for an edge rusher, but what he lacks in height and weight, he makes up for in speed, quickness, and an elite motor. One of Smith’s most impressive qualities is his ability to bend around the edge, a skill that allows him to turn the corner and pressure quarterbacks with ease. His relentless style, combined with his exceptional athleticism, enables him to win with both power and finesse.

Smith’s contributions to Georgia’s defense were invaluable, helping the team claim back-to-back National Championships in 2021 and 2022. During the 2022 season, Smith showcased his playmaking ability in critical moments, playing a key role in Georgia’s defense that allowed only 10.2 points per game. His performance during the college football playoffs was particularly impressive, as he was able to consistently pressure quarterbacks and shut down opposing offenses with his speed and awareness.

One of the most telling aspects of Smith’s game is his motor—he never takes a play off. He’s a high-energy player who stays engaged from the first snap to the last whistle. NFL teams are always looking for edge rushers who can keep up that level of intensity throughout a game, and Smith’s work ethic has made him one of the most coveted players in the 2023 NFL Draft class. In fact, many experts believe that Smith’s combination of speed, pass-rushing ability, and leadership on and off the field will make him an instant contributor at the next level.

The Humor and Respect in the Draft Process

Now, enter the humorous interaction with another draft prospect. While many players in the NFL Draft process tend to take themselves and their preparation very seriously, there’s a refreshing aspect when players can maintain a sense of humor and camaraderie while discussing their craft. One such interaction occurred when a young NFL draft prospect, known for his own explosive pass-rushing skills, jokingly referenced the playstyle of Nolan Smith.

In an interview, the unnamed prospect was asked how he compares his playstyle to that of Smith. With a mischievous grin, the prospect laughed and responded, “I mean, I’d like to say my playstyle is a little more refined, a little less ‘run-around-the-field-like-a-chicken-with-its-head-cut-off.’” This joke, of course, was made in good fun, but it highlights how the NFL Draft process is not only about technical analysis but also about establishing personalities and forging relationships with other prospects.

The prospect went on to acknowledge that while he enjoys making jokes at Smith’s expense, he has an immense amount of respect for the Georgia edge rusher. “Don’t get me wrong,” the draft prospect continued, “Nolan is an incredible athlete and one of the hardest-working guys I’ve seen on film. But sometimes, you can’t help but chuckle at how much energy he brings to the table. He’s always flying around the field, always going full throttle. It’s inspiring, really.”

This humorous exchange provides a glimpse into the way NFL prospects view each other in the lead-up to the draft. While they may compete for the same position or even the same top spot in the draft rankings, there is a shared understanding and respect among players, especially those with similar skill sets. This camaraderie is part of what makes the draft process so unique—while it’s a highly competitive environment, it also fosters a sense of brotherhood among athletes who are chasing the same dream.

Nolan Smith’s Impact on the NFL Edge Rusher Position

The playful banter between the draft prospects serves as a fun juxtaposition to the serious evaluation of players like Nolan Smith, who is expected to make an immediate impact in the NFL. However, there is no denying the fact that Smith’s unique playstyle and physical attributes have set the stage for the next generation of edge rushers in the NFL. His combination of speed, explosiveness, and relentless effort has made him a model for how edge rushers can approach the game in the modern era.

The NFL is increasingly moving toward a more pass-oriented game, with quarterbacks and offenses prioritizing quick passes, vertical routes, and high-tempo plays. As a result, edge rushers are expected to have more than just strength and power—they need to be quick, agile, and versatile in order to disrupt the timing of fast-paced offenses. Nolan Smith is a prime example of how the edge rusher position is evolving in this direction. His ability to not only rush the passer but also set the edge in the run game and cover ground in space is a reflection of how the position is adapting to the changing needs of the NFL.

Smith’s ability to move with such speed and grace on the field makes him difficult for blockers to handle, especially on passing downs. He’s the type of player who can win with both finesse and power, depending on the situation. Whether he’s using his burst to turn the corner or leveraging his strength to power through offensive tackles, Smith’s versatility as an edge rusher makes him an attractive prospect for NFL teams.

One key thing that stands out about Smith’s playstyle is his relentless effort. He never takes a play off, which is something that many scouts have noted when evaluating his tape. His motor is always running, and his passion for the game is clear every time he steps on the field. This is the type of player who can completely change the complexion of a defense, creating chaos in the backfield and forcing offenses to adjust their game plans around his presence.

NFL Teams and Nolan Smith’s Potential Landing Spots

Given Smith’s impressive skill set, many NFL teams will be interested in his services when the 2023 NFL Draft rolls around. His fit on various rosters depends on the needs of teams and how they prioritize edge rushers in their defensive schemes. Several teams could be in the market for an edge rusher of Smith’s caliber, especially those with weak pass-rushing units or teams looking to bolster their defense in a more pass-heavy league.

For example, the Philadelphia Eagles, who have a reputation for building a dominant defensive line, could be a perfect fit for Smith. They have a solid group of pass rushers but may look to add a player like Smith to further strengthen their pass rush. Similarly, the Atlanta Falcons, who have struggled in recent years to generate consistent pressure on the quarterback, could also be a landing spot for Smith.

Teams like the Chicago Bears, Minnesota Vikings, and Buffalo Bills could also be in the market for an explosive pass rusher who can impact games in multiple ways. Smith’s versatility in both rushing the passer and defending the run would give these teams a dynamic edge rusher capable of contributing from day one.