LSU defensive tackle, Maason Smith, was selected by the Jacksonville in the second round with the No. 48 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft.
Smith’s selection marks the fourth LSU player selected in the 2024 Draft, as Jayden Daniels, Malik Nabers and Brian Thomas Jr. were all taken in the first round.
The 2023-24 season was an important season for Smith, as a knee injury in LSU’s season opener against Florida State in New Orleans held him out for the 2022-23 season.
In addition, Smith was suspended by the NCAA for LSU’s season opener against Florida State in Orlando for receiving an “improper benefit.”
But he finished his third season at LSU with 27 total tackles, two pass deflections and two-and-a-half sacks. Smith also shined in his true freshman season in 2021 with 19 total tackles and four sacks.
With the sample size of playing time at LSU being smaller than expected for Smith, his potential continues to be an attraction. In the Class of 2021, the redshirt sophomore from Houma, Louisiana was ranked as a five-star, according to 247sports.
At the 2024 NFL Combine, Smith ran a 5.01-second 40-yard dash, a 1.75 second 10-yard split, a 7.62-second 3-cone drill, and a 4.69-second 20-yard shuttle. He also recorded a 31-inch vertical jump at 9-foot broad jump.
At 6-foot-5, 306-pounds, Smith’s tangibles and measurements were convincing to draft scouts, showing the mobility he has along with his strength.
Now, the Jaguars will see if Smith’s potential can be met at the professional level.