Doryn Smith

By Hayden Shapiro

“It’s an art form, you know?” said Cornell wideout Doryn Smith on route running. “I love that. I love running routes, I love executing on the field, and, of course, I love scoring.”

Smith has a deep bag of release packages – seriously, it’s not easy to hand-fight with him on the line, but when he gets past the initial press, what he does after the catch is just as impressive.

Smith is used in so many ways; screens, drags, and even in the return game. This is because he is so elusive with the ball in his hands. It’s not common for a 6-foot-3 wideout to do most of his damage after the catch, but Smith is an exception.

“I’m a workhorse,” said Smith. “I’m a guy who’s going to fit the run, block the safety, but still maintain the ability to do damage in the receiving game.”

Smith is not joking. When watching the Cornell Big Red, it is obvious that the squad has a lot of faith in the West Virginia-native as a blocker. Whether it’s an outside run that sees him tangled up with a low safety or a pre-snap motion concept where he’s deployed to gauge what coverage the defense is lined up in, Smith is going to find a way to impact the game.

This is not just true as a receiver, though. Smith is Cornell’s primary kick returner. He tallied just under 300 return yards this season. His ability to see blocks before they develop and hit the hole with a vengeance is clear on tape.

Smith will be attending the National Scouting Combine in Naples, Florida, this January. Follow along here for more player profiles, articles, and more leading up to the event.

“I am as committed to my craft as anyone,” said Smith. “I’m eager to learn and looking to live a dream.”