Jets Draft Georgia WR Arian Smith to Add Speed and Special Teams Firepower

The New York Jets continued adding offensive firepower on Day 3 of the NFL Draft, selecting Georgia wide receiver Arian Smith in the 4th round. Known for his blazing speed — Smith clocked a 4.36-second 40-yard dash — he immediately brings big-play potential and special-teams value to the roster.

Smith, standing 6’0″ and weighing 197 pounds, was ranked as the 20th-best receiver in the draft by Dane Brugler of The Athletic. He was also one of the players the Jets brought in for a Top-30 visit during the pre-draft process, signaling the team’s strong interest.

While Smith has clear strengths, including being described as “feisty” and “surprisingly competitive” as a blocker, he also comes with some concerns. He recorded 10 drops during the 2024 season, raising questions about his hands at the next level. Still, his upside as a vertical threat and ability to contribute as a gunner on special teams. This gives him a strong chance to carve out a role early in his NFL career.

Dane Brugler summed it up best in his draft guide, “The Beast”:

“Overall, Smith is a vertical target who lacks polish and catch-point consistency, but he has the type of speed to pop a big play or two each game. His potential role as a gunner and decoy will boost his chances of sticking on the back end of an NFL roster.”

Smith joins a wide receiver room that needs some help. Garrett Wilson is a true # 1, but behind that, you have Allen Lazard, Malachi Corley, Xavier Gipson and a few other recent additions. Who will step up, and provide a layer of explosiveness for quarterback Justin Fields to work with?

NY Jets Wide Receivers

Arian Smith College Stats