CINCINNATI -- Akili Smith, who was the Cincinnati Bengals' first-round draft choice in 1999 but never became the quarterback the team envisioned, was released Monday as a free agent.
The Bengals released Smith two days after signing former Washington Redskins quarterback Shane Matthews to a one-year contract as the backup to Bengals starter Jon Kitna. The Bengals' No. 3 quarterback is Carson Palmer, their No. 1 pick in this year's NFL college draft.
In four seasons with Cincinnati, Smith played in 22 games, with 17 starts. He had one playing appearance last season, starting in a home game against eventual Super Bowl champion Tampa Bay.
During his Bengals career, Smith completed 215-of-461 passes for 2,212 yards, five touchdowns and 13 interceptions.
The Bengals released Smith two days after signing former Washington Redskins quarterback Shane Matthews to a one-year contract as the backup to Bengals starter Jon Kitna. The Bengals' No. 3 quarterback is Carson Palmer, their No. 1 pick in this year's NFL college draft.
In four seasons with Cincinnati, Smith played in 22 games, with 17 starts. He had one playing appearance last season, starting in a home game against eventual Super Bowl champion Tampa Bay.
During his Bengals career, Smith completed 215-of-461 passes for 2,212 yards, five touchdowns and 13 interceptions.
