The 2011 NFL Draft had three top cornerbacks in Patrick Peterson, Prince Amukamara and former Colorado Buffalo Jimmy Smith. Peterson was a top 10 pick and Amukamara a top-20 selection. Smith could have gone higher if team's weren't worried over perceived character concerns, but still went No. 27 overall to the Baltimore Ravens.
↵It's a great situation for him, as the Ravens could use a cornerback who can be the complete package. Scout's Inc.'s Matt Williamson went so far as to call him the Defensive Rookie of the Year. ESPN's James Walker caught up with Williamson recently to get further clarification on the tweet. Williamson pulls back on calling him the Defensive Rookie of the Year, saying that cornerbacks have problems winning the award, but he does offer high praise for Smith:
↵↵↵But I love the fit [with the Ravens]. I think he will immediately be their No. 1 corner. He's the Chris McAlister-type they needed. He had no business lasting that long in the draft.
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Williamson then goes on to compare Smith physically to Nnamdi Asomugha, widely considered the top cornerback in the league.
↵One of Smith's main challengers for Defensive Rookie of the Year will, of course, be the Denver Broncos' Von Miller, selected No. 2 overall. A dynamic pass-rusher, the Broncos are looking for an immediate impact from Miller.
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