The Broncos signed Antonio Smith in hopes that the veteran defensive lineman would help their defense make headlines this fall. Less than two months after joining the team, he’s in the headlines, but not for reasons the 11- year NFL veteran or his team would like.
Early Thursday morning TMZ Sports reported that the former Pro Bowler is being investigated for child abuse in Texas.
Smith spent five years with the Houston Texans, starting all but one of his 79 games there. He played one season (2104) in Oakland before joining the Broncos this offseason.
TMZ Sports spoke with the Fort Bend County District Attorney, John Healey, who confirmed the child abuse division is handling the case and that no charges have been filed.
According to TMZ, the case was first reported to officials in Colorado in November but the case was forwarded to Texas, where the accuser says the alleged incidents took place.
The Broncos have issued the following statement to multiple news outlets: “Last night, we became aware for the first time of an allegation involving Antonio Smith. We are now in the process of gathering more information.”
Further investigation by Mike Kils of 9News has revealed that the investigation is sexual in nature.
