What Does WR Jeff Smith Bring to the Giants?

Is there a role for Smith among all of the new additions on the receiving corps?

Jeff Smith, Wide Receiver

Height: 6-foot-1 | Weight: 195 pounds
2022 Stats: GP: 11 GS: 0, 8 rec 134 yds 16.8 Y/R

Jeff Smith is another New York Giants signing who started his career with the "other" MetLife Stadium team, spending his first four seasons with the Jets.

During his second season, he seemed to be working his way into the rotation as a receiver. His reception total (17 receptions on 37 targets) was his highest output in his four years with the Jets.

After that year, his usage and targets diminished. As the Jets welcomed new weapons to prepare for the arrival of quarterback Aaron Rodgers, Smith found himself on the outside looking in, with the Giants coming along to sign him to a veteran minimum deal.

The Giants are looking to get more consistent play from their special teams coverage teams this season, and that is exactly what Smith can contribute. The Giants no doubt recall Smith's performances in the preseason and during their joint practice last summer, and that familiarity probably pushed his signing.

It also doesn't hurt that this former Boston College quarterback/athlete recorded a sub 4.4 forty-yard dash which can be difficult for punt and kickoff return units to deal with.

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Best Case Scenario

Smith is a pro. He will be prepared and do his job at a high level. There are just too many other receivers for him to find a place as a receiver, but his work on special teams will make him a valuable asset to the team.

He could have a similar role to what Russell Shepard held as a dynamic special teamer (Shepard had a similar athletic profile and also spent time with the Giants).

Smith can be explosive as a gunner on the punt and kickoff teams. His leadership ability would make him someone the rookies can look at and model their behavior after. If he secures a spot on the roster, he will have opportunities to prove he can be an effective weapon as a receiver.

Worst Case Scenario

Smith is trying to make this ball club as a special teamer, but so are a lot of other players, many of whom are bigger and just as athletic. Others have the same profile as Smith but have future upside in the two deep on offense or defense.

There are a lot of guys who, like Smith, are just good pros. This will make it difficult for Smith to stand out and make a name for himself on this roster. He may be cut earlier in camp just because the team wants to be fair and give him the opportunity to land on another roster.

What to Expect in 2023

Smith would surprise many people if he could wade through all of the talents on this team at the receiver position and find a spot on the roster. There are so many names to jump over that the Giants have more sweat equity and money invested in.

Fans can still expect Smith to work hard and make a positive impression on the organization and other teams around the league. It is more than likely that Smith will find himself a landing spot on another roster when the season begins. 

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