Another week, another look at a diamond in the rough! This week we take a look at tight end Kaden Smith!
Smith came over to the Giants in 2019 after being released from the San Francisco 49ers following the preseason.
In his early years, he attended Stanford University, where he red-shirted in 2016. In 2017, he hauled in 23 catches for 414 yards and 5 touchdowns. In 2018, he was a finalist for the John Mackey Award. He announced he would forgo his senior season and attend the NFL Draft in 2019.
Smith made his first start in week 12 against the Chicago Bears, recording his first touchdown reception. In week 16, he had a career day against Washington where he caught 6 passes for 35 yards and 2 touchdowns, one that was a game-winner, (with Landon Collins in coverage of course). In his short 2019 NFL season, he hauled in 31 passes for 268 yards and three touchdowns.
Smith was like a younger and more athletic Rhett Ellison, with a higher ceiling. Smith is able to make plays on the ball, had good hands, and can also make efficient blocks. The last part is key because they utilize him well in the running game as a blocker. The Giants signed a tight end named Levine Toilio, and he is mostly utilized in the running game as a blocker. Smith is someone to watch for, especially with Evan Engrams durability in question this season. Smith took on a bigger role this past season, and look for him to earn more snaps in 2020. Smith and Engram paired up together create a dual threat at tight end. Engram has the speed, quickness and route running mechanics. Smith has the pass-catching ability also, and possesses the strength and size to block in the run game, but can also provide quality in the pass game. Smith will be an underrated piece of the offense this year, and will certainly be someone to keep your eye on.
About Dylan Davis
Dylan Davis is a graduate of the State University of New York at Canton, where he obtained a B.A.A in Sport Management. He is a former athlete of football and baseball and sports fan for much of his life. Dylan creates content for 366 Sports and New York Giants 366, and is also a host on his own show, “The J&D Sports Show”.
Twitter: @_TheDylanDavis_
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dylan.davis.7
Instagram: @dylan15dd