Scouting Journals for James Smith

Possesses arguably the best combination of first-step quickness and power among interior defensive line prospects in the 2023 cycle. Extremely quick off the ball, often beating opposing offensive linemen out of their stance. Follows up his first step with considerable upper body and hand strength. Stuns offensive linemen with his punch and gets off of blocks at a high rate. Has a wide-hipped frame without much bad weight. Trimmed down to around 295 pounds prior to his senior year. Plays with high energy and violent physicality. A dominant player as a freshman and sophomore prior to transferring to IMG Academy as a junior. Returned home to Montgomery Carver as a senior and turned in a strong final campaign. Lined up all over the defensive front, showing the ability to disrupt from multiple spots. Finishes plays behind the line of scrimmage with authority. Is able to yank down ball carriers with one hand. Also shows advanced pass rush ability for an interior defensive lineman.

James Smith didn't have a box score-filling type of game as the subject of double- and triple-teams up front. Nonetheless, the 6-foot-3, 300-pounder played with a high motor, fighting off blockers and generating pressure inside, and also playing a supporting role in slowing down the run game (holding the Bears to less than 3 YPC). Smith bends and twists well for a massive-sized interior lineman and his impactfulness on a snap-to-snap basis is not something you routinely witness.

James Smith made his debut at IMG Academy in a game against another talented squad, Fort Lauderdale (Fla.) American Heritage. Of all the new additions to the IMG roster, Smith seems to have assimilated himself the quickest on the field. He showed off his patented stone hands and quick first step, constantly clogging the American Heritage interior. Smith also had the most impressive individual defensive play with a huge sack in the 4th quarter. On a field full of great athletes and future pros, it was a “wow” play.