Welcome to SKOL Search!
This series will be your guide to the 2024 draft class. From scouting reports to mock drafts and exploring different scenarios, we will be covering the NFL draft and the future of the Minnesota Vikings from all angles.
The focus of the draft class in this space will be on the Vikings’ major needs at quarterback, running back, defensive line and edge rusher. We will also focus on wide receiver since it’s a loaded class and an increased chance to get a Stefon Diggs-type steal in the later rounds.
The Vikings are slated to have 9 picks going into the NFL draft and they need to make the most out of them.
Background
Tykee Smith
- Georgia
- Transfer from West Virginia
- Height-5096
- Weight-206 lbs
- Fifth-year Senior
- 4-Star recruit per 247 Sports
- Stats: 212 tackles, 140 solo, 21.5 tackles for loss, 5.0 sacks, 12 passes defended, 8 interceptions, 1 touchdown
- Games watched: South Carolina 2023, Florida 2023, Alabama 2023
Strengths
First thing that stands out about Smith is his ability as a tackler. Despite his size, Smith is both a willing and skilled tackler in space, displaying a wider tackle radius than you would expect from a player his size.
Is a very capable run defender. Is willing to fit the run and reads and reacts really well to what is happening in front of him.
He played a lot of STAR for the Bulldogs and does a really nice job in coverage. Can stay in phase with the receiver and has the makeup speed to catch up.
Weaknesses
Size can be an issue at times for Smith. He is shorter than 5’10” with average arm length that can show up at times.
As a slot defender, Smith was asked to blitz regularly but struggled to shed blocks and continue penetrating the pocket.
At the stem, he gets a little grabby and doesn’t trust his technique and athleticism to carry receivers. Speaking of his athelticsm, it’s capable but he doesn’t have the high end athleticism to thrive at single high.
While he is a plus run defender, Smith can take some poor angles when pursuing ball carriers and allow them to either cutback or get the edge.
Overview
| Man | 8.0/10 |
| Zone | 8.1/10 |
| Range | 11.2/15 |
| Tackling | 12.4/15 |
| Speed | 7.7/10 |
| Quickness | 8.1/10 |
| Athleticism | 7.8/10 |
| Instincts | 7.8/10 |
| Physicality | 6.4/10 |
| Grade | 77.5/100 Third Round |
Smith is a good football player but he isn’t quite a next-level player. He fits best as a versatile safety that can shift down into the slot as a nickel defender.
