Name: Brackin Smith
School: Valdosta State/Charleston Southern
Position: C/G
Height: 6’3″
Weight: 290
Q: What goals did you set and/or accomplish in your final collegiate season?
One of my main goals this past season was to become comfortable being uncomfortable. I spent my first four years of college playing offensive tackle in a triple option offense at Charleston Southern University. I graduated in December of 2018 and thought it would be best to transfer and get out of my comfort zone. Transferring in general was uncomfortable. A new team, new teammates, and new coaches was just the start. I spent the 2019 season playing center in an air raid offense. Changing positions like that, and only having one year to do it, was uncomfortable and challenging. Going from a 260 pound tackle to a 280 pound center meant more than just adding weight. I wanted to become a guy who can be relied on to make the right calls and help lead an offense. Looking back, I felt like I did accomplish that goal and gave Valdosta State all I had.
Q: What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?
I would say that I would be considered a smart and competitive player. I like to make the right decisions that keep everyone on the same page. I also hate losing or having missed assignments.
Q: When you are studying film, what do you focus on to improve your game?
When studying film, I first look to see what kind of defense were playing against. Having a head up nose, shade, G, or 3-tech changes a lot of rules in the run game and pass game. I then look to see who I will be going up against and try to find any tendencies they show. I try to expose those tendencies and make the right calls.
Q: What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position?
My communication skills, blue collar mentality, and versatility help separate me from other prospects. Making sure everyone is on the right page helps the offensive line open up holes and having the blue collar mentality helps finish blocks. Playing center, left tackle, right tackle, and right guard throughout my college career shows my versatility. I’ve also played under 4 position coaches and 3 head coaches in 5 years.
Q: What is your offseason plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities?
I am training at D1 Tampa under Coach Taylor Scott in Tampa, Florida.
Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?
Off the field, I’m a big accountability guy. I hold myself to a high standard, and hold the ones around me to a high standard. On the field my strengths are communication and trying to outsmart the defense. Making sure my teammates and I are on the same page is vital to the success of the offense.
Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL or any other pro leagues?
My final pitch to all pro leagues is that I’m ready to take advantage of whatever opportunity presents itself and sacrifice whatever is necessary to accomplish my goals. I’m ready to turn dreams into realities and give all I got.