Deep speed, but then what? Cowboys rookie WR has a lot to prove

As the Cowboys' rookie minicamp kicks off this weekend, I am wrapping up my coverage with their final, but certainly not least, selection of the 2026 NFL Draft. By selecting ECU wide receiver Anthony Smith in the seventh round (218th overall), Dallas has added a legitimate vertical threat to their receiving corps and a player with the versatility to contribute immediately on special teams.

Smith’s arrival is particularly timely as he joins a unit that recently added veterans Tyler Johnson and Marquez Valdes-Scantling, all while the team secured star receiver George Pickens on a $27.3 million franchise tag for the upcoming season.

Pro Day Measurement

HT: 6-foot-2

WT: 197 pounds

Arm length:31 3/4"

40-yard dash: 4.40 seconds

10-yard split: 1.49 seconds

20-yard split: 2.58 seconds

Shuttle - 4.28 seconds

3-cone drill- 6.94 seconds

Vertical jump- 36" inches

Strengths

Smith is tall, lean, and athletic, primarily functioning as an outside receiver, with only 9% of his plays in the slot. When reviewing his film against NC State, one can observe instances where he excels at tracking the ball. Additionally, he demonstrates impressive body control, allowing him to contort his body to make catches in tight windows or on poorly thrown passes.

In the next game, there are multiple plays in which Smith uses his long, lanky frame to outpace defenders, gaining enough separation to catch the ball. Last year, he recorded an impressive 18 yards per reception. His body control and size make him a significant target, leveraging his 36" vertical leap, which is excellent for making sideline catches when control is needed in specific game situations. Furthermore, when he first joined the NC State Wolfpack as a freshman, he played on the scout team and was recognized as one of the fastest players, traits that could potentially benefit him in playing special teams for the Cowboys.

Weaknesses

During his time at ECU, Smith operated with a restricted route tree, primarily focusing on short hitches, screens, and deep routes. It’s unclear whether this was due to the offensive scheme or his own limitations. To succeed at the next level, he must diversify his route tree to effectively challenge NFL defensive backs.