Introduction
Janius-Isaiah Alfred Smith Sr. (born May 15, 1970) is a former professional American football player who played defensive end for five seasons for the Cincinnati Bengals, the San Francisco 49ers, and the Dallas Cowboys.
Early years
Smith attended Stillwater High School, before moving on to Oklahoma State University , where he practiced football and track. In 1992, he was the Sun Belt Conference champion in the Discus throw.
Professional career
San Francisco 49ers
Smith was selected by the San Francisco 49ers in the fifth round (116th overall) of the 1993 NFL Draft. As a rookie, he played in 9 games and started in 2 at right defensive end. He was waived on September 15, 1994, after playing in 2 games.
Cincinnati Bengals
Smith was claimed off waivers by the Cincinnati Bengals on September 16, 1994, and played in 7 games. In 1995, he was a starter at right defensive end, right defensive tackle and left defensive tackle, registering 44 tackles and 2 sacks. The next year he played in 16 games (12 starts), while registering 34 tackles. He was released on August 4, 1997.
New England Patriots
On March 11, 1998, he signed with the New England Patriots as a free agent after being out of football for a year. He was traded to the Dallas Cowboys in exchange for future considerations on August 25.
Dallas Cowboys
In 1998, he played a full season with the Dallas Cowboys as a reserve defensive tackle.
Kansas City Chiefs
On April 22, 1999, he was signed as a free agent by the Kansas City Chiefs.