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Dwight Smith, who started at safety for the New Orleans Saints last season, has been released after unsuccessful attempts to trade him, the team said on Friday.
Smith, who turns 28 next month, signed a five-year contract as a free agent last year. But he didn't seem to fit into the plans of the new coaching staff.
Under Sean Payton, the Saints added veteran safety Omar Stoutmire in free agency, traded for veteran safety Bryan Scott and drafted safety Roman Harper in the second round. Those three will compete for roster spots along with incumbents Josh Bullocks, Jay Bellamy and Steve Gleason once the team opens training camp July 27, in Jackson, Miss. Stoutmire and Bullocks are the projected starters.
"We're just going to go with some younger guys. That's what it comes down to," Saints general manager Mickey Loomis said.
Smith said several teams already have shown interest in him, including Tampa Bay, where he played four seasons. He also mentioned Minnesota, Oakland and Dallas.
"At least now I get a chance to get in training camp somewhere, to see who's going to give me the best opportunity to really come in and work and start. And somebody might want to sign me long term, so we'll see," said Smith.
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2006/football/nfl/07/21/bc.fbn.saintsmoves.ap/index.html
Smith, who turns 28 next month, signed a five-year contract as a free agent last year. But he didn't seem to fit into the plans of the new coaching staff.
Under Sean Payton, the Saints added veteran safety Omar Stoutmire in free agency, traded for veteran safety Bryan Scott and drafted safety Roman Harper in the second round. Those three will compete for roster spots along with incumbents Josh Bullocks, Jay Bellamy and Steve Gleason once the team opens training camp July 27, in Jackson, Miss. Stoutmire and Bullocks are the projected starters.
"We're just going to go with some younger guys. That's what it comes down to," Saints general manager Mickey Loomis said.
Smith said several teams already have shown interest in him, including Tampa Bay, where he played four seasons. He also mentioned Minnesota, Oakland and Dallas.
"At least now I get a chance to get in training camp somewhere, to see who's going to give me the best opportunity to really come in and work and start. And somebody might want to sign me long term, so we'll see," said Smith.
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2006/football/nfl/07/21/bc.fbn.saintsmoves.ap/index.html
