One year ago he was the Eagles’ “other” rookie from North Dakota State preparing to play in his first preseason game, and cornerback thought the football world was turned upside down, spinning a million miles an hour. Now Smith has a grasp of reality, and with that is a level of confidence far removed from 2016.
Monday’s practice at the NovaCare Complex, of the indoor variety due to heavy rain in South Philadelphia, was another indication of just how far Smith has come. He had his hands on the football at least twice, aggressively jumping routes and closing on receivers.