gr8slayer
02-07-2008, 05:39 PM
Eagles named TE L.J. Smith their franchise player. Surprising, although the franchise number for tight ends ($4.522 million) is manageable. Smith missed most of last season due to injuries. His absence was a big reason the Eagles performed so poorly in the red zone, but Smith is often nicked up. The Birds didn't attempt to negotiate a long-term deal with Smith, suggesting they are happy to make him earn his next contract.