Willie Smith

Willie Junior Smith (born November 13, 1986) is an American former professional football player who was an offensive tackle in the National Football League (NFL). He was signed by the Washington Redskins as an undrafted free agent in 2011. He played college football for the East Carolina Pirates.

He was also a member of the Oakland Raiders, San Diego Chargers and Carolina Panthers.

Professional career

Washington Redskins (first stint) On July 28, 2011, the Washington Redskins signed Smith as an undrafted free agent. Due to the suspension of Trent Williams, he played his first professional game in Week 14 of the 2011 season, rotating the left tackle position with Sean Locklear. In Week 15 against the New York Giants, Smith would start his first game instead of Locklear. He continued to start as the left tackle for the rest of the 2011 season. Smith has received praise for his ability to defend against elite pass rushers Jason Pierre-Paul, Jared Allen, and Trent Cole, despite being a rookie.

During training camp in 2012, Smith split snaps at right tackle with Tyler Polumbus and Maurice Hurt after Jammal Brown was placed on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list. He was released on August 31, 2012 for final cuts before the start of the 2012 season.

Oakland Raiders On September 1, 2012, Smith was claimed off waivers by the Oakland Raiders. On September 27, 2013, he was released.

San Diego Chargers On November 18, 2013, Smith signed a two-year deal with the San Diego Chargers.

Washington Redskins (second stint) Smith re-signed with the Redskins on June 2, 2015. He was released on August 31.

Carolina Panthers On August 18, 2016, Smith signed with the Carolina Panthers. He was released by the Panthers on August 28, 2016.