Telvin Smith Career Overview and NFL Draft Profile
Telvin Smith was selected by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the fifth round of the 2014 NFL Draft with the 143rd overall pick out of Florida State. He played linebacker for the Jaguars from 2014 through 2018, accumulating a blend of special teams and defensive snaps during his five-year tenure. His draft profile highlighted athleticism and tackling ability, which translated into a role as a rotational defender and core special teams contributor for most of his career. More background on his draft selection and early role can be found on the Jaguars official site jaguars.com.
Smith's college career at Florida State positioned him as a reliable tackler in a dominant defensive unit during the Seminoles' national championship season in 2013. His combination of size, speed, and instinct led to his selection in the fifth round despite not being a high-profile prospect. NFL scouting reports emphasized his open-field tackling, coverage instincts, and special teams reliability as key traits that made him a developmental starter candidate.
Telvin Smith Career Statistics and Performance Data
Over his five-year NFL career, Telvin Smith recorded 174 total tackles, 3.0 sacks, 2 interceptions, and 11 passes defensed in regular-season play. His best statistical season came in 2016 when he posted career-high numbers in tackles and passes defensed while appearing in all 16 games. He also contributed on special teams, often ranking among the Jaguars' top special teams players in coverage grades during his tenure.
Smith's per-game averages reflect a steady rotational linebacker who provided value on early downs and in coverage packages rather than a high-volume pass rusher. His tackle numbers were supported by a Jaguars defense that frequently ranked in the middle of the league during his years, with his role expanding in certain defensive schemes under different coordinators. Detailed game logs and advanced metrics are available on Pro-Football-Reference pro-football-reference.com.
Contract Details, Earnings, and Post-NFL Status
Telvin Smith signed a four-year rookie contract with the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2014, with a total value structured around the standard fifth-round rookie pool and performance incentives. His base salary increased incrementally through the league's rookie pay scale, with additional bonuses tied to playing time and special teams performance. The contract details reflect the typical financial structure for a late-round pick who earns roster spot bonuses rather than large guaranteed sums.
After leaving the Jaguars following the 2018 season, Smith has remained largely outside of major NFL transactions, with no high-profile contracts or public free-agency moves reported in subsequent years. His current net worth and post-career activities are not widely disclosed, though his career earnings from NFL contracts and bonuses are documented in league salary databases. Additional financial and career updates can be checked on Spotrac spotrac.com.