Braden Smith is a name that resonates with football fans who follow the Indianapolis Colts and the NFL in general. Known for his exceptional performance on the offensive line, Smith has become one of the premier right tackles in the NFL.

His contribution to the Colts’ offensive line has been integral to the team’s success, providing stability and protection for the quarterback while paving the way for the running game. This article delves into Braden Smith’s stats, his playing style, and his evolution as one of the NFL’s top offensive linemen.

Who is Braden Smith?

Braden Smith is an American professional football player who plays as an offensive tackle for the Indianapolis Colts of the NFL. Standing 6 feet 6 inches tall and weighing 315 pounds, Smith has developed into one of the league’s most reliable and skilled right tackles since entering the NFL in 2018. 

A key figure in the Colts’ offensive line, his role is to protect the quarterback and create lanes for the running back, both of which are critical in setting the tone for the team’s offense. Smith’s versatility, strength, and technique make him one of the most consistent and dependable players on the Colts’ roster. His performances have been recognized by fans, coaches, and analysts alike, and his value to the Colts cannot be overstated.

Braden Smith’s Early Life and College Career

Braden Smith was born on March 4, 1996, in O’Fallon, Missouri. He attended Francis Howell High School, where he was a standout offensive lineman. His skills on the field earned him a scholarship to Auburn University, where he played college football for the Auburn Tigers. During his time at Auburn, Smith was a force on the offensive line. He played in 41 games over four seasons, starting 31 of them. 

Smith’s time at Auburn helped him develop into a highly regarded prospect for the NFL Draft, known for his athleticism and technical ability. He played primarily at right tackle but also had experience at guard, showcasing his flexibility across the offensive line. Smith’s performance at Auburn earned him several accolades, including All-SEC honors in his junior year. His development under the tutelage of Auburn’s coaching staff helped him refine his blocking techniques and transition to the professional level.

Braden Smith’s NFL Draft and Transition to the Indianapolis Colts

Braden Smith entered the 2018 NFL Draft as one of the most highly regarded offensive line prospects. He was selected by the Indianapolis Colts in the second round with the 37th overall pick. The Colts, who had struggled to build a solid offensive line in previous seasons, were in need of an upgrade to protect their star quarterback, Andrew Luck.

Smith’s selection was seen as a key move to solidify the offensive line. His ability to contribute immediately to the Colts’ success was anticipated, and he quickly proved his worth by starting all 16 games in his rookie season. This immediate impact was a clear indicator of his talent and potential.

Braden Smith’s Impact on the Colts’ Offensive Line

Braden Smith’s transition to the NFL was smooth, and he immediately became a vital piece of the Indianapolis Colts’ offensive line. His ability to play with power and finesse allowed him to excel in both pass protection and run blocking. Over the years, he has become one of the cornerstone players of the Colts’ line, contributing significantly to the team’s offensive success.

The offensive line as a whole plays a crucial role in the team’s performance. With a reliable offensive line, a team can protect its quarterback, create holes for the running back, and sustain drives. Smith’s presence on the right side has been key in creating a balanced offensive attack for the Colts.

In the 2020 season, for example, the Colts’ offensive line was one of the best in the league, and much of that success can be attributed to Smith’s performance. The team boasted one of the best rushing attacks, and their quarterbacks enjoyed solid protection. Smith’s consistency and physicality have been key to the Colts’ success in these areas.

Braden Smith’s Career Stats

As of the 2023 season, Braden Smith has been a mainstay on the Colts’ offensive line, starting in nearly every game since his rookie season. Below are some of his key career stats and achievements:

Regular Season Stats (As of 2023):

Games Played: 74

Games Started: 74

Position: Right Tackle

Pro Bowls: 1 (2021)

Smith’s statistics highlight his durability and consistency. He has been an ironman for the Colts, starting every game he has played in, showcasing not only his physical skills but also his reliability and work ethic. His ability to avoid injuries and stay on the field has been one of his most impressive attributes.

Braden Smith’s Playstyle and Strengths

Braden Smith is a powerful offensive tackle known for his combination of size, strength, and athleticism. He excels in both the run game and the passing game, making him a well-rounded player. Below are some of his key strengths that set him apart from other offensive tackles in the NFL:

Strength and Power: Smith’s strength is one of his standout traits. His powerful frame allows him to dominate defenders at the point of attack. He has the ability to move defenders off the ball in the running game, which is essential for creating lanes for the running back. His power is equally effective in pass protection, where he uses his strength to anchor against bull rushes and keep defenders away from the quarterback.

Quickness and Agility: While Smith is a powerful player, he also has surprising quickness for his size. His ability to move laterally and get into position to block pass rushers is impressive. He is also effective at pulling to the outside, which makes him a great fit for outside zone runs and plays that require offensive linemen to move quickly and make blocks in space.

Technique and Hand Placement: Smith is known for his excellent technique, particularly in his hand placement and footwork. His ability to get his hands inside the defender’s chest and drive them back is crucial to his success. Additionally, his footwork allows him to maintain balance and stay in front of pass rushers, whether they are using speed or power.

Durability and Consistency: Smith has been remarkably durable throughout his career, starting every game since his rookie season. His reliability has been a key asset to the Colts, as the offensive line is often only as good as its weakest link. Smith’s consistency in both pass protection and run blocking has made him a cornerstone of the Colts’ offense.

Braden Smith’s Block Wins and PFF Grades

A key metric for evaluating offensive linemen in the NFL is their ability to win blocks. One of the best resources for assessing an offensive lineman’s performance is Pro Football Focus (PFF), which grades players based on their individual play. Braden Smith has consistently received high PFF grades, especially in the areas of run blocking and pass protection.

PFF Pass Blocking Grade (2023): Smith consistently ranks among the top offensive tackles in terms of pass blocking efficiency. His ability to protect the quarterback, particularly against elite pass rushers, has been a critical factor in keeping the Colts’ offense running smoothly.

PFF Run Blocking Grade (2023): Smith’s grades as a run blocker are equally impressive. His ability to create space for the running back and dominate defenders in the ground game is a testament to his skill and strength. In terms of block wins, Smith ranks as one of the league’s top right tackles, particularly in controlling the line of scrimmage and being a reliable anchor in both the running and passing game.

Braden Smith’s Role in the Colts’ Running Game

One of Braden Smith’s key contributions to the Indianapolis Colts has been his role in their running game. The Colts have been known for their strong rushing attack, especially with the presence of star running backs like Jonathan Taylor. As a powerful right tackle, Smith is a crucial part of the offensive line that helps clear lanes for the running back. Smith’s ability to control the edge and create space has been vital for the success of the Colts’ rushing offense. His physicality and consistency in the run game have helped make the Colts one of the more successful teams in terms of rushing yards per game.

Braden Smith’s Key Achievements and Milestones

Braden Smith has enjoyed a highly successful career thus far, and several achievements stand out. These include:

Pro Bowl Selection (2021): Smith earned his first Pro Bowl selection in 2021, an acknowledgment of his elite play as one of the NFL’s top right tackles.

Ironman Streak: Smith has started every game since entering the NFL in 2018, demonstrating his durability and dependability.

Key Role in Playoff Push: Smith’s performance has been instrumental in the Colts’ playoff pushes, particularly in 2020 and 2021 when the team was fighting for postseason spots.

Comparison with Other NFL Offensive Tackles

When comparing Braden Smith to other top offensive tackles in the NFL, he stands out for his consistency and overall skill. Players like Trent Williams, Ryan Ramczyk, and Lane Johnson are often mentioned as some of the best right tackles in the league. While Smith may not always be as high-profile as some of these players, his performance consistently ranks among the best. In terms of pass protection and run blocking, Smith is often regarded as one of the top performers at his position. His PFF grades and block wins reflect his elite status as an offensive lineman.

Braden Smith’s Future in the NFL

As Braden Smith continues to grow in his career, it’s clear that his future in the NFL is bright. His consistency, durability, and skill set make him one of the top right tackles in the league, and he is likely to remain a key piece of the Colts’ offensive line for years to come. With his Pro Bowl pedigree and consistent performance, Smith could eventually be regarded as one of the best offensive tackles in NFL history.

FAQs

How Many Pro Bowls has Braden Smith Made?

As of the 2024 season, Braden Smith has yet to make a Pro Bowl appearance, but he has garnered recognition for his strong and consistent performances. His skill set continues to be a foundational piece of the Colts’ offensive line.

What is Braden Smith’s Role on the Indianapolis Colts?

Braden Smith is the starting right tackle for the Indianapolis Colts. In his role, Smith is tasked with blocking defensive ends, stopping pass rushes, and opening running lanes for the team’s running backs. He’s known for being one of the league’s most reliable tackles, making him a cornerstone of the Colts’ offensive line.

How Does Braden Smith Perform in Pass Protection?

Braden Smith is highly regarded for his ability to excel in pass protection. He has one of the best pass-blocking ratings among NFL offensive tackles. His strong fundamentals, quick feet, and balance help protect the quarterback from sacks and pressures, making him a key player in the Colts’ offensive success.

What Is Braden Smith’s Contract Situation?

Braden Smith signed a four-year, $72.4 million contract extension with the Indianapolis Colts in 2021. This deal solidified his place as one of the top-paid right tackles in the NFL, reflecting his importance to the team’s offensive line.

How Has Braden Smith Performed in the Playoffs?

Braden Smith has participated in a few playoff games with the Indianapolis Colts. While the team has not had extensive playoff success during his tenure, Smith’s play in these games has been solid. His ability to handle high-pressure situations in the postseason has been a valuable asset to the Colts’ offensive line.

In Summary

Braden Smith is undoubtedly one of the most important players on the Indianapolis Colts’ roster. His statistics, achievements, and contributions to the team speak to his elite status as a right tackle in the NFL. Whether it’s through his impressive blocking skills, durability, or role in the Colts’ rushing attack, Smith has proven to be one of the most reliable and skilled offensive linemen in the league today. 

As the NFL continues to evolve, Braden Smith’s role as a cornerstone of the Colts’ offensive line will remain crucial to the team’s success. Fans and analysts alike will continue to monitor his progress and expect him to further solidify his place among the league’s best.

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