Chicago Bears: 7-Round 2021 NFL mock draft post-free agency first wave

Pace has had some hits with small school prospects. He’s done so later in the draft as well. Elerson Smith is one who could be another hit.

In 2019, as a junior, Smith was named to the All-Missouri Vallery Conference First Team. He led the FCS with five forced fumbles, ranked sixth with 21.5 tackles for loss, and fourth with 14 sacks.

In 2020, Northern Iowa decided to postpone football until the spring. Smith decided to pass and prepared for the draft. He was invited to the Senior Bowl and had a good week of practice.

Smith measures in at 6-6 and weighs 262 pounds. He still has room to fill his frame despite already gaining 50 pounds since 2016. He has a high motor and will continue to fight, even when going up against big blockers. He’ll never quit fighting.

Once Smith gains more weight and strength, he could be a very good player. His length gives him a big advantage. He has good quickness and can get to the opposing backfield in three steps utilizing that quickness and length. Once he gets into the backfield, he stalks the quarterback and gets to him pretty quickly.

Despite his lean build, Smith has good strength. He has power in his hands and can knock blockers off balance. He can perform well in an aggressive defense.