Draft Analysis: RB Kevin Smith

If there was an award for "Best Nickname in NFL Draft," that honor belongs to the University of Central Florida's Kevin Smith. Complete analysis and YouTube clip inside.

If there was an award for "Best Nickname in NFL Draft," that honor belongs to the University of Central Florida's Kevin Smith. "24K" (Smith's number/jersey color) was nabbed by the Lions with the first pick in the third round (which required another trade-up).

When watching any video highlight of Smith, you can't help but appreciate his style of play. Smith was used heavily at UCF, setting the NCAA single-season rushing attempt mark (450) his final year, resulting in 2,566 rushing yards -- just over 60 yards shy of the Division I mark set by former Lion great Barry Sanders. Although he'll split time with Tatum Bell, Smith will transition well into Detroit's new zone running scheme; he runs North-to-South on a mission, breaks tackles and can outrun most linebackers and defensive backs.

Currently, Detroit has Bell, Aveion Cason and former third-round running back selection Brian Calhoun. With the addition of Smith, it looks as though Cason or Calhoun and maybe both will be looking for a job once the team makes its training camp trimmings.

Below is analysis from former league scout and Scout.com draft analyst Tom Marino ...

8. Kevin Smith, RB, UCF
40: 4.51v Ht: 6011v Wt: 217v Rating: 1.292
Has good vision, balance, and lower body surge. Can breaks secured tackles and finishes. Is not an elusive runner but is a strong legged runner with the speed to run away from 2nd and 3rd level people. Has a low center of gravity and showed the ability to hit a point and go. Marginal down the field receiver.. (struggles to catch) Under rated and (under)appreciated player. Not flashy, but does a lot of positive things during the course of a game. Rd 3 consideration.