Shaw Bears standout corner back Quintez Smith continues to rack up records and accolades at a brisk pace. This week, the D-II all-American is being recognized for a standout performance in the East Coast bowl, a senior showcase for players out of all NCAA divisions and conferences located in the Mid-Atlantic region.
Shaw has a recent history of players transitioning to the NFL. Former Shaw nose tackle Louis Ellis was signed as a free agent prior to the season, and I’m certain NFL scouts have taken notice of Smith’s record setting senior season.
During the 2009 season, Smith tied a Division II record, returning four interceptions for touchdowns, and tied for first in D-II with nine interceptions. He accumulated 302 return yards. He finished the season with 49 tackles and also scored two touchdowns on fumble returns.
Three defensive backs out of HBCUs were taken last season, and there’s no reason to believe that Smith won’t head up this year’s class of black college standouts. It will be interesting to see if Smith secures an invite to next year’s NFL Draft Combine, but the stats and consistency with which Smith has performed warrant at least a look.
