Bengals name Smith Franchose player

[deerayfan072]

Bengals designated DE Justin Smith as their franchise player.

Smith and his agent have expected the move and shown no resistance, so it seems they're willing to work out a long-term deal. Otherwise, Smith, who had 7.5 sacks and forced one fumble in 2006, will be grossly overpaid under the one-year, $8.6 million tender. The Bengals will also have committed nearly half their cap space if no other deal can be struck. Feb. 15 - 3:43 pm et