The New York Jets selected Georgia wide receiver Arian Smith in the fourth round of the NFL draft Friday. Smith joins the Jets bringing elite speed to the team's offense.
Smith was recognized as one of the fastest players in college football. He holds a notable track background, including long jump and relay accomplishments from high school and college. His personal best in the 100 meters is 10.10 seconds.
While known for speed, Smith worked to improve aspects of his receiving game during his college career. This included refining his route running and ability to defeat press coverage at the line of scrimmage.
His performance during the draft evaluation process drew attention, particularly at the Senior Bowl and NFL combine. Smith recorded a 4.36-second 40-yard dash at the combine, the fastest among Georgia players this year.
Despite some past inconsistencies, Smith led Georgia receivers with 817 receiving yards on 48 catches last season, according to information from Athens. He recorded multiple games with over 100 receiving yards, including against SEC opponents Alabama and Mississippi State.
Smith also contributed on special teams for Georgia, playing the gunner position on the punt coverage unit for two seasons.
His college career involved overcoming several injuries. He sustained a broken wrist early, later a torn meniscus and broken fibula, and a high ankle sprain and fractured ankle requiring surgery before his senior year.
These physical setbacks led Smith to retire from track and focus solely on football, contributing to a healthy senior season.
Georgia offensive coordinator Mike Bobo praised Smith's dedication throughout his time with the Bulldogs.
"I love that kid because there’s not a harder worker on our football team than Arian Smith," Bobo said. "He’s a guy that’s going to give you 100 percent every play."
