Name: Artèvius Smith
School: East Tennessee State
Position: SS/Nickel
Height: 5’10″
Weight: 190

Q: What goals did you set and/or accomplish in your final collegiate season?

Before senior season I told myself that I wasn’t going to be that weak link and that I was going to make All Conference First Team and be an All American! I accomplished more than I said by getting tabbed to both the Coaches and Media All-SoCon First Team, Twice named SoCon Defensive Player of the Week, AP FCS All-American Second Team, STATS FCS All-American Second Team and the Phil Steele All-American Third Team, Buc Buchanan Award Finalist, Turned in a career performance as a senior, finishing the season with a team-best 89 tackles, as well as a team-high 62 solo tackles, Pulled in a career-best and Southern Conference-best five interceptions, Ranked 11th in the SoCon in tackles per game (7.4) and fourth in the league in passes defended per game (0.83)

Q: What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?

I don’t like to speak for my coaches or teammates but if I had to say anything I would think they would call me very energetic, passionate, and just a caring individual!

Q: When you are studying film, what do you focus on to improve your game?

I get really excited to watch film because I get to prepare for the opposing team and see what different schemes and plays they like to run. It’s always a good feeling when I find the smallest details cause that will help me and tell my teammates so we can all be on the same page and play to the best of our abilities without thinking so much but the one thing I focus the most on was reading the opponents quarterback. Pre snap reads to see if he licked hands to get grip on the ball for a pass, the way he turned his head before the snap, watching to see if he stares down a wide receiver or try to look me away, and just the way he sets up his shoulders to tell me if it’s a deep or short throw but just the small details to help me make plays.

Q: What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position?

I love focusing on the small details that everyone might not think are as important to whether that be lining up a certain way, taking one less step in my movements, and learning everyone’s job on the defense so I know where my help is on the field at all times!

Q: What is your offseason plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities?

I’m currently training with Manny Rodriguez and BJ Clay in Lawrenceville, GA at a facility called U48 Fitness! Those guys do a great of keeping me going and getting the results that I’m looking for!

Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?

I will bring lots of energy, enthusiasm, positivity, and just a good character to get better as a person and player!

Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL or any other pro leagues?

All my life I wasn’t given that many opportunities but I thank God for the ones that I was given! With those opportunities I took full advantage of them and I never looked back!