LSU defensive tackle Maason Smith is one of the most productive and athletic prospects in the 2024 NFL Draft. Smith posted career-best numbers throughout 2023, having routinely made plays behind the line of scrimmage. Smith then went to the NFL Combine and proved that he’s a rare athlete at his position, elevating his pre-draft stock to new heights in front of decision-makers. Smith continued to improve his stock through an excellent on-field position workout at LSU’s Pro Day.

Smith recently spoke exclusively with The Draft Network. Smith discussed recording personal-high numbers this season, his performance at the NFL Combine, his pass rush arsenal, and more.

JM: You missed the majority of the 2022 season with an injury. What was your mindset like as you battled through that adversity?

Maason Smith: It was always about progressing forward and getting back to the level I knew I was capable of playing at. I felt like I was one of the best players in the country when I was healthy.

That was my mindset. I stayed focused on getting back to my best self. I had to continue to get better throughout that process. I used it as motivation while I went through the rehabilitation process.

I strived to keep going. I always want to be the best player I can be.

JM: You did just that. You returned to play a full season in 2023 and you were dominant. You recorded a career-high in tackles (28) and made a bunch of plays behind the line of scrimmage as well. What was the main reason behind the production this past season?

Maason Smith: I didn’t feel like things were necessarily going in my favor throughout the early portion of the season. I got a lot better as the season progressed forward. I had to get back to being dominant.

I kept my head down and continued to work hard. Eventually, that progression came. I got back to being Maason Smith. That’s all that was. I feel like I got a lot better. I felt very disruptive around the line of scrimmage. I got back to being comfortable.

JM: When I turn the tape on, I see a physically gifted defensive lineman with first-step explosiveness and terrific lateral agility. Do you feel like athleticism is at the forefront of your skill set?

Maason Smith: Yeah, I definitely do. I’ve always been very athletic for my size. I move well laterally for a defender of my stature. I definitely think my skill set and the on-field production have a ton to do with my overall athletic ability.

JM: Speaking of that athleticism, you also put forth an outstanding performance at the NFL Combine. You ran a 5.01 40, which is an outstanding result at 306 pounds. You also leaped a 31-inch vertical.  How would you grade the overall performance?

Maason Smith: I was very pleased with the overall results. I would probably give it a “B-plus” or an “A-minus.” I have to leave some room for improvement. Like you said, I ran a 5.01 40. I was hoping to run a 4.9. I’m not putting too much stock into that though. Overall, I was very proud of what I achieved at the NFL Combine. I was able to showcase my athleticism.

JM: You sure did. Is Maason Smith a better pass rusher or run stopper at this point in time? How would you describe your pass-rush arsenal? What are your go-to moves and counters?

Maason Smith: I definitely feel like I’m more advanced as a pass rusher. That area of my game is very fluid. I like to switch it up as a pass rusher. For the most part, I just try to execute our game plan. I placed my faith in our coaching staff. Whatever that was, that’s what I did.

I wouldn’t necessarily say that I have a go-to move that I rely on. I watch a lot of film and pay close attention to my upcoming opponents. I identify which moves give them fits on tape and I try to replicate that. I want to see what they struggle with.

That’s what I hone in on. I’ve had a lot of success with that.

JM: You also have outstanding length with 35-inch arms. How do you use that length to your advantage?

Maason Smith: Length allows me to get my hands on opponents before they get their hands on me. That’s the name of the game. I create separation between offensive linemen and me with my length. Length helps me disengage. It also helps me strike my opponents whenever I want to.

JM: You've been on a bunch of pre-draft visits according to your social media, including the Bills, Bengals, and Packers. How is that process going?

Maason Smith: I just got done with my 12th pre-draft visit. I’m actually at the airport right now (laughs). I’m flying back home for a day. It’s been a lot of fun. This entire process has felt like one great opportunity.

It’s been a blessing for me. I’m going to a lot of cities and visiting a lot of places I’ve never visited before. It’s been fun to fly all over the country with an opportunity to see new spots.

I started off in New Orleans with the Saints last week. I flew to Cincinnati and Pittsburgh. I also met with the Jets and Giants. I went to Minnesota, Buffalo, Green Bay, and Charlotte. I just got back from Arizona. I have a few more visits coming up later this week.

JM: There’s so much interest in you and it’s easy to see why. We've appreciated your time today. I feel like this conversation has highlighted why you're one of the best defensive prospects in the 2024 NFL Draft. What kind of impact is Maason Smith going to make at the next level?

Maason Smith: I’m going to continue getting better at the next level. I think my potential means I can do whatever I need to do to be whoever I want to be. The sky’s the limit for me. I’m looking forward to reaching that potential.

I want to be an impact player for whichever organization drafts me. I’m excited for my rookie season. I want to set the tone for what’s going to be a successful career.