Browns to host Central Arkansas CB Tremon Smith for pre-draft visit

In the weeks leading up to late April’s NFL Draft, teams are playing host to numerous prospects, some to confirm their places on their respective draft boards and others simply to get to know better after having their interests piqued by game film, athletic testing or both. A smaller-school defensive back is among the Browns’ visit list, with Central Arkansas’ Tremon Smith set to come to town this week.

NFLDraftScout.com’s draft expert, Dane Brugler, had Smith pegged as a “priority free agent,” rather than likely to be selected within the draft’s seven rounds, writing in his draft guide (available for purchase here) that, “Overall, Smith is speedy with ball skills and return value, but will need to improve the technical and mental parts of his game to compete vs. NFL wide receivers.”

However, even Brugler has admitted Smith’s stock is on the rise. Beyond the Browns, the Indianapolis Colts, Philadelphia Eagles, Oakland Raiders and Kansas City Chiefs have had or will schedule a meeting with him, and Brugler noted that Smith is now “Looking more and more like a draft pick.”

In four seasons with Central Arkansas, Smith totaled 146 tackles, 53 passes defensed and 15 interceptions with one returned for a touchdown. He has also worked as a returner; in 2016 and 2017, he ran back a combined 39 punts for 295 yards and a score.

His ball-tracking skills and return abilities now, along with the increased interest around the NFL, will likely result in his name being called at some point in the draft’s third day. Apparently, one of those teams could be the Browns.