What happened: The Aug. 9 birthday arrives during NFL preseason preparations. Smythe is competing for a role built primarily around blocking.
Why it matters: His value comes from supporting the running game rather than generating heavy receiving volume.
By the numbers: Smythe has played at least 15 games in each of his first eight NFL seasons.
What to watch: His preseason usage will clarify how often he lines up across the formation or in the backfield.