Smith, who racked up 2,678 rushing yards at Central Florida last season, may not be as heralded as some of the other running backs in the Class of 2008, but unless the Lions go out and sign someone like
Shaun Alexander, he might just have
the most clear-cut opportunity for playing time as a rookie. The Lions still have
Tatum Bell and
Brian Calhoun, but Smith is a
punishing runner with the ability to
rack up yards after contact, traits that bode well for his chances of turning into a
workhorse back, even out of the gate.
Smith was
highly productive at Central Florida. He's a big kid who fits the inside zone running scheme that the Lions are implementing this year. His football grade is probably a high second-round pick but he fell somewhat due to
off-field issues and a
poor game against Mississippi State to end the year.
The Avengers are happy to welcome Kevin Smith to their squad. Although this was a somewhat difficult decision with the Reggie Bush clone, Chris Johnson, still on the board, the Avengers like Smith's potential to be a contributor early in his career. Despite other teams' avoidance of Smith due to off-field issues, the Avengers value talent and drive above any off-field concerns (see the signings of Terrell Owens and Travis Henry).