Cincinnati, OH (My Sportsbook) - The Cincinnati Bengals signed offensive tackle Andre Smith, the team's first-round draft pick in 2009, on Sunday following a long contract dispute. Terms of the deal were not disclosed, but the Bengals' site reports the deal could be worth as much as $42 million. Smith, who was the sixth overall pick out of Alabama, ended a 30-day holdout that started July 31 at the Bengals' first practice. The deal will reportedly give Smith more money than Jacksonville tackle Eugene Monroe, who was selected eighth overall. Because the 6-foot-4, 340-pound Smith has missed a significant amount of time, including the Bengals' first three preseason games, the team may have to use a two-week roster exemption -- meaning he can practice but not play in a game. Cincinnati plays its final preseason game September 3 against Indianapolis, then opens the season September 13 against Denver. Wide receiver Michael Crabtree, who was taken 10th overall by the 49ers, is now the only draft choice yet to sign. |
