Just in time for the start of training camp, The St. Louis Rams have signed 2009 first-round draft choice (second overall) offensive tackle Jason Smith.
Smith, 6-5, 306 pounds, started 31 career games (24 at left tackle, seven at right tackle) for the Baylor Bears after beginning his career as a tight end. Smith allowed three quarterback pressures and 4.5 sacks in 1,147 plays at left tackle from 2007-08.
In 2008, Smith earned first-team All-America honors from the Football Writers Association to become Baylor’s first All-American offensive lineman since guard Frank Ditta in 1980. Smith also was a unanimous All-Big 12 Conference selection after recording a school-record 96 knockdowns. Smith’s blocking efforts helped Baylor rank 21 st in the nation and third in the Big 12 in rushing, averaging 195.75 yards per game. Smith also cleared paths for the Bears to rush for 29 touchdowns, third-most all-time in school history.
