Broncos training camp: Antonio Smith to report
By Tylor Walden
Aug 15, 2014; Oakland, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders defensive end Antonio Smith (94) warms up before the start of the game against the Detroit Lions at O.co Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports
Antonio Smith missed a good portion of the Denver Broncos’ offseason program as he was set to take care of a personal matter. During the time, Antonio Smith was under investigation for a child abuse case. After two months of being away from the team to help out investigators with the case, the Denver Broncos decided to allow him to come back to Dove Valley to participate.
The decision to have Antonio Smith come back to the Broncos was based upon communications between coach Gary Kubiak and Antonio Smith. The league was also involved with the communications. During the investigation, Gary Kubiak would be in contact with Antonio Smith while the head coach also relayed information to the league offices as well.
Coach Kubiak on Antonio Smith: pic.twitter.com/D6FrqCV7em
— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) July 29, 2015
In my honest opinion, I am quite mixed about the decision. As we all know, Derek Wolfe will be serving a four game suspension to begin the season, so having Antonio Smith participate in training camp is key to see if he deserves a starting job. He is also a great fit in Kubiak and Wade Phillips’ system, becoming one of the best 3-4 pass rushing defensive ends, according to the Broncos.
The negative side to this in my opinion is the investigation itself. I would feel much more at ease if they waited until it was complete before I allow a player to come back. The investigation that Antonio Smith is apart of is quite serious in nature. However, it does make a bit of sense as there are still no charges against him, which is kind of puzzling seeing as how the complaint was made around eight months ago.
However, since the investigation is still pending and there have been no charges filed, it made sense for the Broncos to have Antonio Smith rejoin the team. On one end of the spectrum, his presence might be necessary with the suspension of Derek Wolfe. Antonio Smith is not out of the woods just yet, but given the situation, it was necessary for him to return to at least earn a spot on the roster.