The San Francisco 49ers have selected tight end Kaden Smith out of Stanford in the sixth round of the 2019 NFL Draft, 176th overall.
Smith is an all-around tight end who was a second-team All-Pac-12 selection this past season.
The former Cardinal will compete with Garrett Celek for snaps behind 2018 Pro Bowler George Kittle.
Prospect profile
School: Stanford
Height: 6-5
Weight: 255 lbs
Strengths
- Very experienced lining up at multiple spots
- Great size and uses it well to shield defenders
- Strong hands give him tools to be an adequate pass-blocker
- Able to consistently find soft spot in zones
- Physical at top of routes - able to extend and separate
- Hauled in a number of deep receptions in 2018
Weaknesses
- Doesn't possess ideal speed or athleticism
- Often gets jammed/knocked off his spot during early portion of routes
- Lacks burst off line of scrimmage, leads to early route deficits
- Can be bullied as run-blocker
- Had a few drops over last two seasons
Bottom line
Smith is a solid, sturdy prospect who has plenty of experience lining up in the slot at Stanford. Unfortunately, he lacks explosiveness and athleticism to be deployed there in the pros. Smith has a high football IQ and excellent body control but likely maxes out as a second tight end.
