The Jacksonville Jaguars received puzzled reactions when they selected defensive tackle Maason Smith with the 48th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. At the time, cornerback was considered a more urgent need, but the Jaguars couldn’t pass up Smith’s exceptional talent. Recent remarks by linebackers coach Matt House should reassure fans about the decision.
During a media session at the Jaguars’ rookie minicamp, House highlighted the qualities that made Smith excel at the college level.
“He’s a hard worker with great measurables. He’s a tall guy who loves to practice hard. As I said, he’s a sponge,” House explained. “[When] Coach Nielsen and coach [Jeremy] Garrett work with him, his best days are ahead.”
House also addressed Smith’s health, noting that he tore his ACL in 2022 and was still recovering last year. According to House, Smith regained his form towards the end of 2023.
“It wasn’t until the latter half of the season, maybe even the last quarter, that he looked like his old self. Recovering from that injury takes time, and he missed some training camp. But when we first got there, he was unstoppable in the first spring and even into the first game before his injury.”
Smith played in 12 games in 2023, recording 4.5 tackles for a loss and two sacks. Although he hasn’t been at full strength since 2021, House’s comments should excite Jaguars fans.
The Jaguars may have secured great value in Maason Smith. Having coached him at LSU for the past two seasons, Matt House knows Smith well. While House could be biased, he gains nothing from exaggerating Smith’s potential. It’s also worth noting that Jacksonville might have landed a steal.
Byron Murphy II was widely regarded as the best defensive tackle in the draft and was selected by the Seattle Seahawks at No. 16. However, all the defensive tackles picked between Murphy and Smith come with uncertainties.
Ruke Orhorhoro was seen as a reach at No. 35. The Washington Commanders’ pick, Jer’zhan Newton, will need foot surgery, putting his 2024 availability in doubt. The Tennessee Titans selected T’Vondre Sweat at No. 38, despite conditioning issues and a recent DUI arrest. Braden Fiske, who went to the Los Angeles Rams at No. 39, was initially projected as a third or fourth-round pick but saw his stock rise after an impressive NFL Scouting Combine.
While this doesn’t necessarily mean Smith is better than these players, they all have question marks. Smith’s biggest concern is that he hasn’t fully showcased his abilities since 2021.
Ultimately, the Jaguars drafted Maason Smith because they believe he can be a difference-maker. If he succeeds, there will be no more complaints about not drafting a cornerback early.
