The Questions with L.J. Smith

Eagles Tight End

What was yourwelcome-to-the-NFL moment?

At my firsttraining camp [in 2003], the rookies had to take the veterans out for dinner atthe Capital Grille [in Philadelphia]. The bill came. It was in thethousands.

What is yourfavorite off-day activity?

Playing videogames--mainly NBA Live.

What's one thingabout being in the NFL that people don't really think about?

We can't call insick like everybody else. We've got to come to work no matter how we feel.

If I weren't inthe NFL, I'd be ...

a teacher.

If I were NFLcommissioner for a day, I'd ...

put in a rule thatallows each player to take two sick days per month. Don't feel well? Take asick day. Don't feel like practicing? Sick day.

LAST WEEK

One day after hisalma mater, Rutgers, improved to 7--0, Smith had four receptions for 38 yardsin the Eagles' loss to Tampa Bay.

THIS WEEK

Smith, 26, and theEagles (4-3) host the Jaguars (3-3), who have never played in Philadelphia.

TWO PHOTOS

SIMON BRUTY (SMITH PLAYING); JIM MCISSAC/GETTY IMAGES (SMITH HEAD SHOT)