Xavier Smith: Contract| Rams| Stats| Height| Colorado| 40 time

Introduction

In a league where only a small percentage of players go from walk-on prospects to NFL contributors, Xavier Smith’s journey stands out as one of resilience, speed, and versatility. A former HBCU star at Florida A&M, Smith’s ascent to the Los Angeles Rams roster as a wide receiver and return specialist has been compelling. From his undrafted contract to his NFL performance, this profile dives into every angle of Smith’s career — including his physical traits, stats, contract details, 40-yard dash time, and impact on the Rams.

Who Is Xavier Smith?

Xavier Smith (born September 21, 1997) is an American professional football wide receiver and return specialist for the Los Angeles Rams of the NFL. Known for his explosive athleticism and special teams contributions, Smith has carved out a place on the Rams roster despite entering the league as an undrafted free agent.

• Position: Wide receiver / return specialist

• Team: Los Angeles Rams

• Jersey: #19

• Birthplace: Haines City, Florida, U.S.

• College: Florida A&M University (FAMU)

• NFL Debut: 2024 season

College Career — Florida A&M Rattlers

Before his NFL breakthrough, Xavier Smith built a decorated career at Florida A&M, becoming one of the most dynamic receivers in the program’s recent history.

He walked on to the team, ultimately becoming a key offensive weapon and earning conference honors. Smith’s college stats reflect consistency and growth over multiple seasons, highlighted by his senior year where he surpassed 1,000 receiving yards and became one of the top HBCU defenders in the nation.

Smith’s college journey wasn’t linear — after high school, he spent time working outside of football before earning a collegiate opportunity. His rise from relative obscurity to NFL prospect is a testament to hard work and self-belief.

Physical Profile — Height, Weight & 40 Time

Smith may not fit the traditional size profile for an NFL wide receiver, but his explosive athletic traits have helped him stand out:

• Height: 5 ft 9 in (175 cm)

• Weight: ~176–180 lbs (80–82 kg)

• 40-Yard Dash: ~4.38-4.39 seconds (HBCU Combine)

His 40-yard dash time is one of the key measurements that elevated his draft stock and helped him gain attention from NFL teams. Running sub-4.40 at a pro day or combine setting is impressive for a receiver of his size, showing burst and open-field potential.

NFL Contract — Rams Signing & Terms

After not hearing his name called in the 2023 NFL Draft, Smith signed with the Los Angeles Rams as an undrafted free agent.

Contract Details:

• Signed: January 16, 2024

• Contract Length: 2 years

• Total Value: $1,755,000

• Average Annual Salary: ~$877,500

• Team: Los Angeles Rams

• Role: WR / Special teams contributor

• Negotiations: Smith represented himself in contract talks

Although not a blockbuster deal, Smith’s contract reflects a typical path for undrafted players who show enough potential to secure a multi-year commitment from an NFL franchise.

2024–2025 NFL Stats & On-Field Contributions

Receiving & Offensive Stats (Regular Seasons)

Across his first two seasons with the Rams, Smith’s contributions have grown:

While he hasn’t yet scored his first NFL touchdown, Smith has shown efficiency when targeted and a knack for gaining chunk yardage. His special teams work — particularly punt returns — adds another layer of value to his role.

Special Teams Impact

Smith’s speed and agility have made him a frequent option for punt returns. A notable moment came early in his active roster stint when he delivered a 38-yard punt return that helped set up the Rams’ game-tying drive and eventual win in Week 3.

Although he faced criticism for a muffed punt in the 2025 NFC Championship game — a play that drew media attention and heated fan reaction — his multitier role on offense and special teams remains important for Los Angeles.

Role with the Rams — Beyond Stats

In today’s NFL, players like Xavier Smith can carve out long careers as versatile depth pieces because they contribute in multiple phases of the game:

• Wide Receiver Depth — Provides options on offense and flashes playmaking ability

• Return Specialist — Used on punt and kickoff returns

• Special Teams Utility — Adds value in coverage and gadget play roles

Coaches generally reward players who can fulfill multiple roles, especially in tight roster battles — and Smith’s journey from practice squad to active roster is evidence of that.

Fan & Media Reaction

Smith’s performances have sparked mixed reactions among fans, especially after high-pressure moments on special teams. Some fans celebrate his hard-earned playing time and improvements, while others focus on play-specific mistakes. Regardless, Smith’s NFL role — particularly on special teams — keeps him in the conversation as a key contributor for the Rams.

Comparison to Other Players

Smith’s physical traits — especially his speed — are comparable to other smaller, fast receivers in the league who carve out roles based on quickness, route-running, and special teams contributions. His sub-4.4 40-yard dash time places him among the more explosive athletes at his position from his draft class.

Summary — What Makes Xavier Smith Unique

Here’s why NFL fans and analysts are watching Xavier Smith:

Underdog Background: From an HBCU walk-on to NFL regular contributor.
Speed & Burst: 40-yard dash around 4.38-4.39 seconds showcases his athletic upside.
Team Versatility: Wide receiver and return specialist roles.
Contract Stability: Two-year deal with the Rams gives him runway to grow.
Growing Production: Career-high receiving yardage in 2025 season.

FAQs About Xavier Smith

Q1: What is Xavier Smith’s 40-yard dash time?
A: At the HBCU Combine and pro day settings, Smith has been clocked at around 4.38 to 4.39 seconds, an impressive mark that boosted his NFL profile.

Q2: How tall is Xavier Smith?
A: Xavier Smith is listed at 5 ft 9 in tall and around 176–180 lbs.

Q3: What contract did Xavier Smith sign with the Rams?
A: Smith signed a 2-year, $1,755,000 contract with the Los Angeles Rams in January 2024.

Q4: What are his career stats?
A: Through the 2025 NFL season, Smith has 20 receptions for 309 yards and is utilized as a return specialist.

Q5: Where did Xavier Smith play college football?
A: Smith played at Florida A&M, where he was a dynamic receiver and earned All-SWAC and All-American honors.

Final Thoughts

Xavier Smith’s rise from high school uncertainty to contributing NFL player is an inspiring story about perseverance and talent. While his career is still unfolding, his contract with the Rams, solid speed metrics, special teams contributions, and steady growth on offense suggest he will continue to be a versatile cog in Los Angeles’ lineup.

Whether he turns into a breakout wide receiver or remains a valuable special teams ace, Smith’s journey embodies the grit and determination that define many successful NFL careers.