The Indianapolis Colts added some beef to their defensive line in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, snagging Alabama’s Tim Smith at 190th overall. So, what exactly are the experts saying about this pick? Let’s dive into what the scouts are buzzing about when it comes to the former Crimson Tide standout.
Before we get to the juicy scouting reports, let’s talk about the Colts' big need on their defensive front. Behind star linemen DeForest Buckner and Grover Stewart, there’s a pretty noticeable depth issue. That’s where Tim Smith steps in — a true run-stuffing specialist who can bring some serious muscle to Indy’s defensive rotation. According to Pro Football Focus (PFF), Smith graded out as one of the top interior run defenders in college football last season. That’s no small feat when you’re battling SEC offensive lines every week.
Now, if you’re thinking Smith is about to come in and rack up double-digit sacks, pump the brakes a bit. That’s not really his game — and the experts are pretty clear about that. However, his role could be absolutely critical, especially on early downs when teams are trying to pound the ball between the tackles.
➡️ Key Point:
Smith’s strength lies in eating up space, clogging lanes, and freeing up the linebackers to make plays.
Let’s hear what some of the top draft analysts had to say about Smith:
From NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein:
"Hard hat defensive tackle who is much more of a plugger than a playmaker. Smith has average size and traits, but he thumps blockers with accurate strikes and anchors down to clog lanes. He can set a firm edge or control the block as a two-gapper, but a lack of length could catch up with him as a pro. He has enough power to get into the pocket on occasion, but he might need scheme help to get home as a rusher. Smith plays with pretty good power and sound technique. He could become a rotational defender in the NFL."
That "hard hat" description really sums it up. Think of Smith as the blue-collar worker of the defensive line — no flashy moves, no highlight-reel plays — just good, tough, physical football.
Dane Brugler of The Athletic also chimed in, noting:
"Overall, Smith’s stat production doesn’t indicate an impactful player, but he consistently flashes on tape with the traits and assignment-sound mentality that suggest he can be a role player in the NFL."
In other words, the box score might not light up after a game, but when you flip on the tape, Smith’s doing the dirty work that coaches absolutely love.
➡️ Quick Takeaway:
Smith isn’t a “numbers guy,” but he’s a “do-your-job guy” — and every defense needs one.
A closer look at Smith’s game shows:
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Strength at the point of attack: Smith is not someone you're easily moving off the ball. He uses his hands well to engage blockers and maintain leverage.
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Two-gapping ability: Coaches trust him to control both sides of the blocker, a must-have trait for defensive schemes that demand discipline.
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Motor and effort: He’s not the flashiest athlete on the field, but Smith brings a steady effort play after play — an underrated but critical factor for defensive success.
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Technical soundness: Smith’s hands, feet, and eyes all work together really well. He understands blocking schemes and doesn’t get tricked easily.
When you stack it all up, Smith is exactly the kind of player Colts GM Chris Ballard loves to bet on — a grinder with NFL-level toughness who just needs some coaching and experience to carve out a long-term role. Plus, with Buckner and Stewart mentoring him, Smith couldn’t have landed in a better spot to develop.
The Fit with the Colts
Let’s talk about why Smith and the Colts make so much sense together. Indianapolis leans heavily on strong interior defensive line play to allow their athletic linebackers to fly around and make tackles. Buckner can rush the passer. Stewart is a monster against the run. Smith brings a little bit of both but leans heavier into the run defense side — perfect for spelling Stewart without losing much physicality in the trenches.
Also, considering Stewart's contract situation (he’s entering the final stages of his deal), Smith could be groomed as a potential future starter if things work out right.
➡️ Exciting Projection:
Smith could easily develop into a starter down the line with the right coaching and physical growth.
Of course, there are some concerns. Smith doesn’t have great length, which could limit his effectiveness against NFL-caliber offensive linemen who have longer arms and better technique. He’s also not going to wow anyone with quickness or suddenness off the snap. If you ask him to shoot gaps like Aaron Donald, you’re setting him up to fail. But if you want a guy to lock down his gap and be a brick wall on early downs? Smith’s your man.
And hey, when you’re picking at No. 190 overall, you’re looking for guys who have one or two elite traits you can work with — and Smith’s elite trait is his ability to anchor and absorb double teams.
Final Thoughts:
There’s a lot to like about the Colts rolling the dice on Tim Smith late in the draft. While he might not be the splashiest pick, he’s the kind of glue-guy who helps defenses win championships by doing the gritty, thankless work. Plus, with his Alabama pedigree, you know he’s been coached hard and has faced top-tier competition.
If Smith buys into the Colts’ culture, continues developing his technique, and embraces his role, he could become a sneaky-good contributor for Indianapolis over the next few years.
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