In his first two seasons at McNeese State (2005-'06), Bryan Smith appeared in 21 games (12 starts) and recorded 127 tackles (34 for losses) and 20.5 sacks. In 2007, he played 12 games and delivered 60 tackles (22.5 for losses), 10.5 sacks, four forced fumbles and a six-yard fumble return for a touchdown. Last season Smith was named a first team FCS All-American and the Southern Conference's Player of the Year, only the fourth defensive player in the league's history to earn the distinction.
The most dominant edge rusher in the Football Championship Subdivision (formerly D-IAA) over the past two seasons, Smith is a two-time All-American and Southland Conference Defensive Player of the Year. As one would expect of a player his size, Smith possesses great burst off the snap and the straight-line speed to chase down ballcarriers. He has intriguing change of direction and flashes explosiveness in his hands, prompting some to view him as a potential diamond in the rough.
High School: An all-district performer in both football and basketball. ... One of the top football players coming out of SE Texas in 2002. ... Four letters in both football and basketball and a high jumper in track and field. ... Third place in state high jump meet.
Positives: Intriguing athlete who has dominated his level of competition. ... Good burst off the snap and shows the balance to sink his shoulders and drive around the offensive tackle. ... High-effort player who pursues with passion. ... Reads the action quickly and flashes the change of direction to flatten out and beat backs to the edge. ... Flashes strong use of hands to disengage from blocks.
