MOBILE, Ala. — The only knock surrounding Alabama star receiver DeVonta Smith is how his slender, yet dynamic frame will hold up at the NFL level.
And Smith did himself no favors attempting to end any concerns regarding the matter as Senior Bowl activities got underway this week.
Smith, the 2020 Heisman Trophy winner, declined to have his height and weight taken on Tuesday, adding fuel to the perception that his thin frame could lead to durability concerns in the NFL. Alabama lists Smith at 6-foot-1 and 175 pounds, but undersized players are generally shorter and lighter than what they’re listed at. So it’s unclear what his true measurements are, but there’s no questioning his on-field talent.
Smith, who could be targeted by the Miami Dolphins with the No. 3 pick in April’s draft, will instead have his measurements taken during Alabama’s Pro Day, which likely will be held in late March.
Players who play in the Senior Bowl typically do not stray away from the weigh-in portions of the festivities. Smith did submit hand (9 3/8 inches), arm (31 1/2) and wingspan (78 1/2) measurements.
But the decision not to participate in Tuesday’s weigh-in does provide him with additional time to add weight during the NFL draft process.
The Dolphins, seeking to add game-changing offensive playmakers in the offseason, were hoping to get a full scouting report on Smith this week.
Dolphins coach Brian Flores and his staff are one of two teams coaching at the Senior Bowl with hopes their work alongside prospects could aid their draft evaluations.
Smith suffered a hand injury during the first half in the national championship game. He had 12 catches for 215 yards and three touchdowns in the first half of the Crimson Tide’s 52-24 win over Ohio State, but didn’t play in the second half after dislocating a finger on his right hand.
Smith, who amassed 1,856 receiving yards and scored 23 receiving touchdowns last season, will attend Senior Bowl meetings and practices, but won’t participate in practices or the game because of his injury.
