L. J. Smith
John Smith III, commonly known as L. J., which stands for "Little John", is an American former professional football player who played tight end in the National Football League. He played college football for the Scarlet Knights football|Rutgers Scarlet Knights]. He was selected by the Philadelphia Eagles in the second round of the 2003 NFL draft.
Early life
In elementary school, he went to Bartle in Highland Park. At Highland [Park High School (New Jersey)|Highland Park High School] in Highland Park, New Jersey, Smith played both basketball and football. As a senior football linebacker, he posted 11 sacks, 143 tackles, and five interceptions.College career
A four-year starter, he finished second in Rutgers history among tight ends with 122 receptions for 1,458 yards and ten touchdowns, surpassed only by Marco Battaglia.Smith earned All-Big East honors as both a junior and senior, and served as team captain as a senior, leading the Scarlet Knights with a career-high 32 receptions for 384 yards and three touchdowns.
Professional career
Philadelphia Eagles
Smith was selected by the Philadelphia Eagles in the second round of the 2003 NFL draft. As a rookie, he backed up Chad Lewis, and had 27 receptions for 321 yards and a touchdown. Coach Andy Reid worked Smith and Lewis both into the offense with two tight-end sets, and Smith had 34 receptions, 377 yards and five touchdowns in 2004. That season, the Eagles reached Super Bowl XXXIX and Smith made an impressive diving reception in the back of the end zone for the Eagles' first touchdown of the game, though they would go on to lose to the New England Patriots 24–21.With the retirement of Chad Lewis and suspension of Terrell Owens, Smith became one of Donovan McNabb's top targets; between 2005 and 2006, Smith led the Eagles in receptions, receiving yards and receiving touchdowns.
Entering the final year of his contract in 2007, Smith suffered a hernia injury that could have possibly kept him out for the season. Smith however did recover in time for the season opener, though the injury would limit him for much of the year. Unable to reach an agreement on a long-term deal, the Eagles placed the franchise tag on Smith for the 2008 season.