Key Points
- Kaden Smith’s notable college career at Stanford included 23 receptions for 414 yards and five touchdowns in 2017.
- Drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in the 2019 NFL Draft, Smith later contributed to the New York Giants with 52 receptions, 413 receiving yards, and three touchdowns.
- Smith’s journey through the NFL has seen him play for the Giants, Indianapolis Colts, and Washington Commanders.
Kaden Smith showcased his talent as a tight end early on at Edward S. Marcus High School in Flower Mound, Texas. His high school career was impressive, with 144 receptions for 2,260 yards.
Committing to Stanford University for college football, Smith redshirted his first year before making a significant impact in subsequent seasons. His performance in 2017, with 23 receptions for 414 yards and five touchdowns, was a highlight.
A finalist for the John Mackey Award in 2018, Smith demonstrated he was among the top tight ends in college football. He decided to enter the 2019 NFL Draft, forgoing his senior season at Stanford.
Selected in the sixth round by the San Francisco 49ers, Smith’s professional career began with promise. However, he found more playing time and opportunities after being claimed off waivers by the New York Giants.
Throughout his time with the Giants, Smith made notable contributions, including his first NFL touchdown in a game against the Chicago Bears. His journey through the league has also included stints with the Indianapolis Colts and Washington Commanders.
During his tenure with the Giants, he played a total of 33 games, starting in 22, and amassed 52 receptions for 413 yards, averaging 8.6 yards per catch, with a longest reception of 32 yards and three touchdowns.
The D.C. Defenders already have 4 tight ends on the roster. Among the notable players in this position group are Shaun Beyer from Iowa, Ben Bresnahan from Vanderbilt, Alex Ellis from Tennessee, and Briley Moore from Kansas State.
Alex Ellis and Briley Moore-McKinney were on the teams rosdter in 2023. In the 2023 XFL season, Alex Ellis showcased his talent by securing all four targets for 25 yards and scoring two touchdowns in a game, marking his best performance of the season. He finished the season with eight receptions for 59 yards and four touchdowns.
