Articles

NFL Cornerback Keith Smith Signs With The 49ers

By Staff
November 04, 2009
 
In search of depth at defensive back, the 49ers signed former Lions cornerback Keith Smith, 29, to a one-year contract Tuesday.

The move came a day after the 49ers announced that cornerback Nate Clements would be sidelined six to eight weeks with a fractured scapula.

Smith was released by the Detroit Lions at the end of training camp. He knew he needed to improve his speed and strength if wanted to get back into the NFL, so he quickly started working with Chad Smith and his staff at the Velocity Sports Performance in Canton, MI
 
Smith worked out 3 days a week for 2 hrs a day improving his speed and strength. "I haven't felt this good in a long time" said Smith.  " I couldn't have made it back with out Chad's training program.  In just a few weeks he made me faster and more explosive"
 

Smith (5-11, 191) gives the 49ers an experienced backup. He played in 71 games, including five starts. With the Lions, Smith had 118 tackles, four interceptions, a sack, a forced fumble and a touchdown.

A former standout at McNeese State, he was the Lions third-round draft pick in 2004.