Alleged contact between Alabama's Smith, agent brings probe

Dec 31, 2008 - 5:16 PM BIRMINGHAM, Alabama (Ticker) - Alleged illegal contact between Alabama left tackle Andre Smith and a sports agent has prompted the Alabama Attorney General's office to begin a probe into the matter.

Smith, this year's Outland Trophy winner as the nation's top interior lineman, has been suspended for Alabama's game against Utah in Friday's Sugar Bowl.

A spokesman for state Attorney General Troy King told the Birmingham News that the office has begun reviewing potential evidence of wrong doing.

Alabama has one of the strictest agent laws in the country.

"One of the things that helps as a deterrent is the law we have in place," spokesman Chris Bence said. "Alabama not only has a tough law, but it has been successfully prosecuted (against agents). We have a track record of enforcing this law."

A junior, Smith has been projected as a high first-round pick, although he has not indicated if he will enter next year's NFL draft.

Smith was sent home from New Orleans on Monday, but told the Birmingham News that he has not ruled out returning to Alabama for his senior season.

"I haven't decided whether to go (pro) or come back," he said.

However, any dealings with an agent could jeopardize his eligibility.

Details of the alleged contact have not been made public and Smith plans to return to school following the winter break for the second semester.