Lambert-Smith, a former Tiger, wants to establish himself as a rookie.

KeAndre Lambert-Smith has heard the doubters. He’s read the draft profiles, the scouting reports that questioned his consistency, and the social media noise suggesting he might not stick at the next level. But the former Penn State wide receiver isn’t flinching. If anything, he’s using the criticism as fuel as he prepares for his first NFL season—a new chapter Lambert-Smith is approaching with an edge and a point to prove.

The 6-foot-1, 188-pound receiver, once one of the most highly anticipated recruits in the Nittany Lions’ 2020 class, is officially a professional now. After declaring for the NFL Draft and landing with a team eager to give him a shot—whether via the later rounds or as an undrafted free agent—Lambert-Smith is embracing the underdog role. He’s hungry. He’s focused. And he’s determined to carve out a name for himself.

“I’m betting on myself,” Lambert-Smith said at rookie minicamp. “I know what I’m capable of. I’ve been through ups and downs. But I’m built for this moment.”

Before he was a college standout and an NFL rookie, Lambert-Smith was a rising star at Maury High School in Norfolk, Virginia. A four-star prospect in the 2020 recruiting class, he was known for his burst, route-running potential, and playmaking ability. His family ties to the game helped shape his early development—his uncle, Kam Chancellor, was a Pro Bowl safety for the Seattle Seahawks and a key piece of the “Legion of Boom” defense that dominated the NFL in the mid-2010s.

“Kam always told me to stay patient, stay grounded,” Lambert-Smith said. “He knew what it took to last in the league. That advice means even more now.”

Lambert-Smith chose Penn State over several ACC and SEC programs, drawn to the school’s tradition of developing receivers like Chris Godwin, Allen Robinson, and Jahan Dotson. He saw an opportunity to be the next great Lion to leap to the league.

Lambert-Smith’s college tenure was marked by moments of brilliance, flashes of frustration, and plenty of lessons along the way. He played in 13 games as a true freshman in 2020, contributing 15 catches for 138 yards in a season disrupted by the pandemic. His breakout came in 2021, with more playing time and increased responsibilities in Penn State’s offense.

But it was the 2022 and 2023 seasons where Lambert-Smith began to come into his own. He posted a career-high 53 receptions for 673 yards and four touchdowns in 2022, then followed that with 53 catches for 673 yards again in 2023—almost identical stat lines that showed both his reliability and room for growth.

He became a big-play threat, known for his long touchdowns and knack for taking the top off defenses. Still, consistency and chemistry with the quarterbacks—especially young starter Drew Allar—was sometimes lacking. Dropped passes and timing issues occasionally overshadowed his athleticism.

“I knew I had to grow up fast,” Lambert-Smith admitted. “College taught me resilience. I didn’t always have perfect games, but I learned how to bounce back, how to lead.”

Head coach James Franklin often praised Lambert-Smith’s work ethic and maturity in handling criticism.

“KeAndre has always had the tools,” Franklin said during the 2023 season. “What I’ve been most proud of is how he’s handled adversity. He’s grown into a leader.”

As the 2024 NFL Draft approached, Lambert-Smith found himself on the bubble—some analysts projected him as a Day 3 selection, others pegged him as a priority free agent. His Pro Day performance showed solid speed, crisp route work, and improved hands, but the competition at wide receiver was deep in this year’s class.

“KeAndre didn’t blow anyone away with his numbers,” one scout told The Athletic. “But he’s a guy who can develop into a contributor. You love his attitude.”

When the draft concluded and Lambert-Smith’s name wasn’t called, disappointment briefly crept in. But within minutes, his phone rang. An NFL team wanted him in camp. The journey wasn’t over—it was just beginning, and he wouldn’t have it any other way.

“I don’t care how I got here,” Lambert-Smith said. “I’m here now, and I’m going to make it count.”

Now in the thick of rookie minicamp, Lambert-Smith is one of dozens of young players fighting for a roster spot. But he’s already turning heads.

“He’s got that twitch, that suddenness you want in a slot or Z receiver,” said one assistant coach. “He’s eager to learn, not afraid to ask questions.”

He’s also soaking up every moment, whether it’s in the film room, on the practice field, or during one-on-one drills. Veterans have noticed his work ethic. Coaches have praised his professionalism.

“I’ve been dreaming about this since I was a kid,” Lambert-Smith said. “To be in the NFL, wearing the gear, competing with these guys—it’s surreal. But I also know it’s a business. Every day’s an audition.”

He’s well aware that his path won’t be easy. The depth chart is crowded, and making the 53-man roster may require special teams contributions, standout preseason performances, and relentless attention to detail.

That’s fine by him.

“I’ve always believed that pressure makes diamonds,” he said. “They might not know my name now, but they will.”

Lambert-Smith credits his time at Penn State for preparing him for the grind of the NFL. He talks about the importance of accountability, structure, and mastering the little things. He also points to the brotherhood he shared with his teammates—guys like Parker Washington, KJ Hamler, and Jahan Dotson—who showed him what it meant to be a pro.

“Watching those dudes work, how they approached the game—it rubbed off on me,” he said. “Now it’s my turn to set the tone.”

While some fans may remember Lambert-Smith for his big touchdown catches, including a memorable 88-yard strike against Utah in the Rose Bowl, he wants to be remembered for more than just highlight plays.

“I want to be known as a guy who did things the right way, who showed up every day, who helped his team win,” he said. “That’s legacy.”

Whether Lambert-Smith becomes a slot weapon, a return specialist, or a developmental project with upside, one thing is certain: he’s not going away quietly.

There’s always room in the NFL for grinders—for players who maximize their chances, fight through obstacles, and stay coachable. Lambert-Smith fits that mold. He’s not entitled. He’s not making excuses. He’s showing up early, staying late, and putting in the work.

“He’s got a little edge to him,” said one teammate. “He knows this is his shot. And he’s going to do everything to grab it.”

NFL history is filled with players who weren’t drafted, weren’t hyped, but made their mark anyway. KeAndre Lambert-Smith believes he can be the next name on that list.

“This is my dream. But it’s also my job now,” he said. “And I’m going to make sure I handle my business.”

As the NFL preseason draws nearer, Lambert-Smith will get his chance—on the field, under the lights, with the world watching. And if he has his way, those same scouts who overlooked him will soon be wondering how they missed.