Braden Smith

Smith comes in to 2021 as the Cardinals’ leading returning receiver, having put up 27 catches and 370 yards, though failing to score. Louisville must replace a dynamic duo of Dez Fitzpatrick and Tutu Atwell, who combined for 89 catches, 1,458 yards and 10 touchdowns. Given Smith’s 5-foot-10 frame, he seemingly slots more favorably to take over Atwell’s role, but there are concerns about Smith’s abilities to break big plays. Further clouding Smith’s outlook is the presence of Shai Werts, a converted quarterback transfer from Georgia Southern, who has shown to be more dynamic in space. Because of his experience and lack thereof on the depth chart, Smith will certainly get his chances to produce. But this doesn’t appear to be a case where the next man up just takes over production. Expect the Cards to use a differing rotation often, and Smith to be an inconsistent producer as such.