HOUSTON -- The Houston Oilers have received a two-week exemption that keeps Doug Smith, former defensive lineman with the Birmingham Stallions of the U.S. Footbal League, off their roster, officials said Thursday.
Smith, the team's second-round draft pick in 1984, practiced with the Oilers Thursday after signing a contract, said club spokesman Bob Hyde.
The 6-foot-4, 285-pounder played for Birmingham last season and had three years remaining on that contract. He signed with the Oilers after he was released from the contract and it was confirmed he cleared USFL waivers.
Terms of Smith's contract with the Oilers were not diclosed The exemption issued by the NFL means Smith will not count on Houston's 45-man roster for two games.
'We think he can help us,' Oilers' General Manager Ladd Herzeg said. 'We're carrying only five defensive linemen ... and based on what our scouts say, Doug Smith can make a contribution. Whether or not he can be an impact player remains to be seen.'
Herzeg began negotiations with Smith's agent, George Kickliter, during training camp. Herzeg said he would not sign Smith unless the Oilers received a letter from the Stallions that Smith had been released from his contract.
Smith, who played at Auburn, rejected the Oilers' offer last year and signed a 4-year, $1.25 million contract with Birmingham. He earned All-USFL honors at defensive tackle.
