The Jacksonville Jaguars have signed defensive tackle Larry Smith

to a contract. Smith, who was selected by the Jaguars in the second

round of the April 17-18 draft, becomes the first of eight draft

choices to sign a contract. In fact, Smith is the first draft choice in

the NFL to sign a contract since being drafted. Quarterback Tim

Couch, the first overall choice of the Cleveland Browns, signed a

contract prior to the draft.

Smith, 24, was the Jaguars' second draft selection, the 25th choice

in the second round and the 56th pick overall. He played in 31

games over three seasons at Florida State, making 119 tackles and

six sacks.

Length and terms of Smith's contract are not disclosed. The

Jaguars now have 72 of the 80 players on their roster under

contract for the 1999 season.

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