Smallwood is a long, athletic safety with range and ball skills. He shows good recognition of both the run and pass game. Against the run, he is willing to come downhill and wrap up around the legs, stopping forward momentum. He tackles with form and strength, whether assisting in the pile or finishing solo in the open field. His coverage ability also stands out. He recovers quickly in zone and has the length to break up throws across his area. On deep passes, he competes well in the air, showing timing and confidence in jump-ball situations. Smallwood plays with toughness and awareness, but adding bulk and quicker reads from depth will elevate his impact. His frame and instincts project him as a versatile safety who can defend the run and disrupt the pass.

Karmelo comes to Oakdale after being at Frederick HS and looks to bolster their defense into a top unit. A player with good size and athleticism, he broad jumped 9’4 3/4″ at the National Preps Spring Showcase and has a nice big wingspan. A smooth/fluid DB who has great range and ball skills. Could also see Karmelo being used on Offense and being another weapon for Rodriguez in the passing game. Karmelo holds one offer from Morgan St. already. Look for him to have a very productive year for Oakdale and being a big impact transfer.

Smallwood also had 5 interceptions on the season, where he used his height and length to pluck the ball out of the air. Along with the interceptions he had 4 fumble recoveries giving him11 take aways on the season, he took one fumble recovery back for a touchdown. In the run game he meets ball carriers within the first 5 yards of the line of scrimmage taking away the opportunity for them to build momentum downhill. Over the past two years he’s had 10 interceptions and 90+ tackles, expect for his production to at least remain the same or be even more of an impact defensively. Smallwood is definitely a player opponents need to highlight.