The Philadelphia Eagles have selected Nolan Smith, an outside linebacker from the University of Georgia, in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft (DawgNation). Smith was taken with the No. 30 pick, and Eagles beat writers are excited about the selection (Bleeding Green Nation). Known for his speed and athleticism, Smith measured at 6’2″ and 238 pounds, with a 40-yard dash time of 4.39 seconds, a vertical of 41.5 inches, and a broad jump of 10’8″ (Bleacher Report). The Eagles were not the only team to show interest in Smith, as two NFC teams also showed significant interest leading up to the draft (UGA Wire).
Smith is considered one of Georgia’s top draft-eligible prospects (DawgNation). The Bears also showed significant interest in the young EDGE, making the Eagles’ selection in the first round a no-brainer (The Athletic). The Eagles have now taken four players from Georgia in the last two years, with Smith being the latest draftee from the SEC school (NJ.com). Todd McShay’s final 2023 ESPN NFL mock draft had the Eagles landing Smith, in addition to another draft pick, Brian Branch (Eagles Wire).
Overall, Nolan Smith’s impressive athleticism and potential as an outside linebacker have made him a highly-coveted prospect in the 2023 NFL Draft, ultimately landing him with the Philadelphia Eagles.
