Penn State linebacker Brandon Smith is the latest Nittany Lion to hear his name called during this year’s NFL Draft having been selected 120th overall by the Carolina Panthers in the fourth round on Saturday afternoon. He joins former Penn State linebacker and now Panthers’ head coach Matt Rhule in Charlotte as well as former Penn State defensive end Yetur Gross-Matos.
Smith leaves Penn State having racked up 132 career tackles over a three year span. The Virginia native opted to declare for the draft following the 2021-22 season despite some criticism that he may eventually be drafted hire if he returned for one final year.
“We are so thrilled for Brandon to have his dream of playing in the NFL come true,” said Penn State coach James Franklin. “He will be a great fit for the Panthers organization. With an impressive combination of size and speed, Brandon has all the tools to be a successful NFL linebacker. He showed tremendous growth during his time here at Penn State and I am excited to see him showcase his athleticism on Sundays. I enjoyed having the privilege to coach Brandon, and look forward to watching him wreak havoc on NFL offenses for years to come.”
Nevertheless, Saturday’s news at least partially validates Smith’s decision to declare for the draft. He follows in the footsteps of former teammate and NFL Defensive Rookie of The Year Micah Parsons who was selected No. 12 overall last year. NaVorrow Bowman and Sean Lee were the last second or third round selections by former Penn State linebacker prior to Parsons.
Smith is the latest Nittany Lion to go off the board following teammate receiver Jahan Dotson who was selected No. 16 overall by the Washington Commanders in the first round of the draft on Thursday night. On Friday evening safety Jaquan Brisker and defensive end Arnold Ebiketie who both went in the second round.
