2023 NFL Draft: Jaguars Set To Meet With Georgia's Nolan Smith

The former Georgia Bulldog tore up the NFL Scouting Combine last month.

Speed off the edge is a premium in the NFL, and Nolan Smith is as fast and athletic as they come.

The 22-year-old made a statement in early March, logging a 4.39 40-yard dash, while putting his elite athleticism on full display with a 41.5” vertical and a 10.8” broad jump at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis. Add in the fact that Smith checks in at 6’2” and 238 pounds, and you have a prospect with the size and athleticism that has the potential to be a problem at the next level.

The raw potential that Smith exudes has attracted plenty of suitors, with Aaron Wilson of KPCR2 reporting that the Jacksonville Jaguars are one of the interested teams and have an upcoming visit with the 22 year-old.

The number one recruit in the class of 2019, Smith went on to play four seasons with the Georgia Bulldogs, finishing his collegiate career with 110 total tackles (20 for loss), 12.5 sacks, one interception, one fumble recovery, and three passes defended.

Source: Georgia @GeorgiaFootball edge rusher Nolan Smith (4.39 speed) visiting #Buccaneers today; #Jaguars #Ravens among other upcoming #NFLDraft2023 visits @KPRC2https://t.co/a43m0fqbzs

— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) April 3, 2023

Smith’s senior season in 2022 was where he truly broke out, amassing three sacks, seven tackles for loss, and a defended pass in eight games before a torn pectoral ended his season prematurely. The 22-year-old’s recovery has been nothing short of remarkable, with his impressive Combine performance as proof in the pudding.

Most publications tab Smith as a first round talent, with the majority mock drafts projecting him to be drafted before the Jaguars' selection at No. 24. 

“I think we’ve got to improve our pass rush. I think that’s vital, particularly on third down,” Jaguars head coach Pederson said last week at the NFL's annual owners meetings. 

"I thought we were good with the run, we just gotta continue to get better with the run and shore up some things there. I think the passing game is the area we have to look at and address in the offseason, and clean that part of it up."