Back in the spring and summer, Todd Bowles always seemed to speak with a smile and reverence in his voice when mentioning rookie third-round pick Tykee Smith.
The nickel cornerback/safety out of the University of Georgia also impressed the Bucs’ front office for his football aptitude prior to the draft. And some of that love was shown via official Buccaneers video.
Smith endured a freakish knee bruise prior to the Bucs-49ers game on Nov. 10. It cost him three games. He returned Sunday against the Raiders and played well with a key red zone interception.
That had Bowles speaking with great respect and appreciation again.
> “It’s rare because he’s a very intelligent football player. Not many rookies take mental reps on the side, whether you’re hurt or not in, and still go out there and execute and understand the game plan,” Bowles said. “And he’s one of the few guys that can do that.”
Bowles called Smith “huge” for also playing safety on Sunday in addition to nickel.
All Joe can do is applaud. What a third-round pick he’s been so far. Smith has proven to be a strong tackler with a knack for forcing fumbles.
Can he keep it up and avoid injuries? That’s probably a key to the Bucs’ chances for a postseason victory.