Defensive lineman Antonio Smith, who was dismissed from the team in late May, will get to train and practice with his new teammates, the Denver Broncos decided Tuesday.
Smith, who was signed as a free agent to a one-year deal, is still under investigation for sexual child abuse, but due to the fact no charges have been filed, he was asked to rejoin the team and will Thursday.
Earlier in the Broncos offseason, Smith was ousted before OTAs due to the complaint which was filed in Ford Bend County, near Houston, Texas. Smith played for the Houston Texans from 2009-13.
Denver General Manager John Elway and head coach Gary Kubiak discussed Smith’s situation with the NFL and all parties agreed to allow Smith to participate in training camp even though the Ford Bend District Attorney is still investigating the case.
“We’ve been in communication with Antonio and the league for the last couple of months,” Kubiak said via the team’s website. “Based on those discussions, it’s appropriate for Antonio to be here and compete with the rest of the team as we begin training camp.”
Last season with the Oakland Raiders, his 12th as a professional, the defensive end racked up 20 tackles and three sacks. Smith’s best season in the NFL came in 2012 with the Texans, with 30 tackles, a career-high seven sacks, three passes defended and two forced fumbles. He was considered one of the better pass-rushing 3-4 defensive ends in the league from 2011-13 and Denver hopes he brings that ability to the table in 2015.
Smith won’t have a problem re-learning the plays from defensive coordinator Wade Phillips in the 3-4 defense the Broncos will implement this season. The 33-year old will have to get himself into playing shape though, after taking months away from the team.
Following Derek Wolfe’s four-game PED suspension earlier in the week, being able to bring Smith back to the team is good news for the Denver defensive line.
