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Thursday, June 26, 2003

By Shelly Anderson, Post-Gazette Sports Writer

Marvel Smith knows how the Steelers operate. He saw Wayne Gandy play out his contract and jump to the New Orleans Saints for a lot of money.

That's why Smith feels doubly satisfied after signing a six-year, $26 million contract Tuesday.

The deal not only ties him to the Steelers for what look to be the prime years of his career, but it also indicates the team has a firm belief in his talent.

Smith, 24, who became a starter at right tackle his rookie season, is moving to left tackle this season to replace Gandy. If that's a big risk, the Steelers aren't showing any trepidation after making Smith one of the four highest-paid offensive linemen in the NFL.

"It's a great feeling for them to have the confidence to invest that in me," Smith said yesterday by phone from Los Angeles. "I haven't played left tackle, but I feel like I've proven myself, that I can play at this level."

Smith, 6 feet 5 and 308 pounds, has started 41 of 44 regular-season games in his career, including the past 37 in a row. He played left tackle at Arizona State before becoming the Steelers' second-round pick in 2000.

"It's going to make it easier," he said of his experience as an All-American left tackle with the Sun Devils.

Smith, who will be responsible for protecting quarterback Tommy Maddox's blind side, said he's prepared for the position change.

He said most of the teams he faced last season rotated their defensive ends, meaning he faced a lot of top pass rushers.

Smith, 24, could have let his first NFL contract expire after this season, but he preferred to play for the Steelers long term rather than shop himself around next year.

"I'm just happy to continue my career in Pittsburgh," he said.

"I didn't really give any thought to any other teams. Pittsburgh is where I want to be. It's home now.

"I can't wait to get to training camp and start the season."