AUBURN, Ala. – NFL Draft gatherings are nothing new to KeAndre Lambert-Smith.
KLS, the former Auburn receiver known by his initials, got his first taste of draft-night drama as an 8-year-old in 2010, attending the draft party of his uncle, future Super Bowl champion Kam Chancellor.
Now it’s KeAndre’s turn.
“I’m ready for that phone call. It’s a blessing to be here. We’re finally here,” said Lambert-Smith, who plans to watch the draft with family and close friends in his hometown of Norfolk, Virginia. “The ones who stuck with me through this process, the ones in my corner who mean the most to me. We’re going to celebrate.”
After four seasons at Penn State, Lambert-Smith transferred to Auburn last year, making 50 receptions for 981 yards and eight touchdowns, earning second team all-SEC honors and ranking eighth in the nation in yards per catch (19.62).
“It allowed me to showcase my deep-threat ability and contested catches,” Lambert-Smith said of his SEC season. “I got to put on film what some scouts thought I was lacking. I feel like it benefited me in the long run. I appreciate the move and I’m grateful for it.”
Lambert-Smith developed off the field as well, serving as a role model for Auburn’s younger receivers.
“The biggest area it allowed me to grow was my leadership,” Lambert-Smith said. “Coach (Marcus) Davis let me know we had four true freshmen in the room. I was the guy they looked up to, so I had to set the standard every day, be consistent. It challenged my leadership ability, and I rose to the challenge.”
Lambert-Smith returned to the Plains March 24 on Auburn’s Pro Day, displaying his 34-inch vertical leap and pass-catching skills.
“That I’m explosive and I’m fast,” Lambert-Smith said of his pre-draft objectives when dealing with NFL front office personnel. “Speed, agility and route-running ability. A competitive, energy guy who can run routes and play make.
“Talking my guys up, keeping everybody locked in, cheering everybody on. Showing I could be outside or inside, and run every route.”
Fifteen years after watching his uncle receive a life-changing phone call, KLS awaits his moment.
“All I’m looking for is an opportunity to showcase my ability,” he said. “When I get the call, I’m going to do the rest.”