Is Cam Smith Lions' CB of Future?

Read more on whether the Detroit Lions should target South Carolina cornerback Cam Smith in the 2023 NFL Draft.

The Detroit Lions have made a concerted effort to upgrade their cornerbacks room this offseason. 

They've already inked Cameron Sutton and Emmanuel Moseley to free-agent deals, and could add another cornerback in the first round of this April's NFL Draft.

If Detroit general manager Brad Holmes doesn't take Oregon's Christian Gonzalez, Illinois' Devon Witherspoon or even Penn State's Joey Porter Jr. at No. 6 overall, he could opt to select South Carolina's Cam Smith at No. 18 overall.  

Although Smith isn't considered a top-three corner in this year's draft class, he's still got all the tools to be a solid defensive back at the next level. 

Kirby Lee, USA TODAY Sports

Smith, who stands in at 6-foot, 188 pounds, is a physical defender who offers high-level coverage instincts and ball skills. He finished with a Pro Football Focus coverage grade of 64.5. 

He also brings to the table a good amount of speed, as well as fluid hips and quick feet. 

All of the above intangibles allowed Smith to develop into an impact performer in the Gamecocks' secondary.

Smith finished the 2022 season with six passes defensed and an interception in 11 games. While the numbers weren't mind-blowing, his play was good enough for him to earn second-team All-SEC honors from longtime college football scribe Phil Steele. 

As Smith's NFL Draft Bible profile reads, the South Carolina product offers "stellar length for the position, long arms, and rangy frame. Logged snaps as a boundary corner, nickel defender, and post safety. Incredibly active player, instituting energy on every play. Infectious competitiveness radiates throughout his teammates. Fluid athlete in every sense. Fleet-footed from pedal to break, with polished hips and snap in his lower body movement. Closing speed mitigates the weaknesses of leverage responsibilities. Has the skill set to play man coverage, but the acuity to shine in zone." 

Undoubtedly, Smith is a first-round talent. And, I have to believe that Holmes and the Lions' coaching staff are enamored with the high degree of physicality that the former Gamecocks cornerback brings to the table.

I think he'd be a nice find for Holmes & Co. at No. 18 overall.