The Returning Backup: Kaden Smith
Kaden Smith enters year two of his NFL career this time with the NY Giants. Last year, Kaden was selected 176th overall in the 6th round of the 2019 NFL Draft by the San Francisco 49ers.
Smith came out of Stanford as a raw, but talented player that needed to refine his skills and techniques. Smith made the 49ers’ 53-man roster but ultimately got cut shortly before Week 2 of the regular season.
The NY Giants made no hesitations and scooped Smith off of waivers. He entered a crowded unit with Engram and Rhett Ellison already on the roster. However, both Engram and Ellison dealt with respective injuries which cleared the way for Kaden Smith to find the field for the second half of the season.
Kaden did not disappoint in his opportunity to see the field. With little expectations, Smith more than surpassed everyone’s original expectations for the Stanford product. He became a security blanket for Daniel Jones to rely on and trust to make safe consistent catches.
Kaden broke out in Chicago with 5 catches and a touchdown performance in a loss against the Bears. He followed that up with an impressive 6 catches and 70 yards against the Packers in the heavy Meadowlands’ snow. He displayed his ability to block and make tough catches while getting hit.
Smith’s shining moment of the season was in Week 16 in Washington. Kaden helped lead the NY Giants to victory, with 6 catches and two for touchdowns. His second touchdown was the game-winning/ending play in overtime as he blew past ex-Giant Landon Collins on a quick slant across the middle.
Smith ended the 2019 season on a high note in Week 17, racking in 8 catches for 98 yards, both career highs for him.
Kaden Smith is a talented player who has already overcome some adversity in his young, promising NFL career. He brings a good blend of balance to the Giants offense and he will have a big role in Jason Garrett’s “12” personnel heavy offense.
Look for him to be featured in many two-tight end sets and he will help further set the edge for the NY Giants, making the tackles’ jobs easier and he will bring some ability to the passing game as well.