Bengals Sign J. Smith to Franchise Player Deal

Defensive end Justin Smith signed a one-year, $8.644 million contract with the Cincinnati Bengals.

That's the tender offer that the Bengals made to Smith in February when they placed their franchise player tag on him to limit his free agent mobility.

"We are pleased that Justin has come in at this time, so he can join his teammates for our important offseason work," Bengals Coach Marvin Lewis in a written statement released by the team. "It's a display of his commitment to the Bengals and to a winning program. This does not preclude our continuing to talk to Justin and his representatives about reaching a longer-term agreement."

Smith said in a written statement, "I'm fired up and ready. "I'm glad we got this done. It's time to get back with my teammates, get in some good offseason work, and make this a great season for the Bengals."

Smith is the third of the seven franchise-tagged players league-wide to sign contracts, joining New Orleans Saints defensive end Charles Grant and Seattle Seahawks kicker Josh Brown. New England Patriots cornerback Asante Samuel, Chicago Bears linebacker Lance Briggs, Detroit Lions defensive tackle Cory Redding and Indianapolis Colts defensive end Dwight Freeney remain unsigned.

By Mark Maske |  May 8, 2007; 2:43 PM ET  | Category:  Bengals
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