Broncos Excuse DL Antonio Smith While He’s Being Investigated For Child Abuse

Mike Klis of 9News reports that the Broncos have excused veteran DL Antonio Smith from OTAs while he’s being investigated in a child abuse case.

According to Klis, the decision was made after Broncos GM John Elway consulted with HC Gary Kubiak and President Joe Ellis about the situation. Klis mentions that it was collectively decided that this would be the best approach for all parties involved.

TMZ first reported that Smith was being investigated for alleged child abuse in Texas. According to TMZ’s sources, the accuser claims there are multiple incidents dating back to 2010.

Fort Bend County District Attorney, John Healey, has confirmed that the child abuse division is handling the Smith’s case. However, there have been no charges filed up to this point.

“We’re trying to discern the truth from the untruthfulness of the claim to decide what charges, if any, will be filed,” Healey said.

TMZ added that the case was first reported to officials in Colorado back in November, but it was eventually forwarded to Texas, where the incidents reportedly took place.

Fort Bend County Sheriff Troy Nehls mentioned that a complaint was made against Smith back in November of last year was “sexual in nature,” via the Associated Press.

Smith, 33, spent five years of his career with the Texans before signing a two-year, $9 million contract that he signed with the Raiders as an unrestricted free agent last March.

However, the Raiders cut Smith loose months and he wound up signing a one-year, $2 million contract with the Broncos.

In 2014, Smith appeared in all 16 games for the Raiders and recorded 20 tackles, three sacks, and a forced fumble. Pro Football Focus has him rated as the No. 57 defensive tackle out of 81 qualifying players.