Smith to appeal suspension for hard hit

Florham PArk, N.J. -- New York Jets defensive back Eric Smith said he would appeal the suspension and fine imposed by the NFL for his hit on Arizona's Anquan Boldin.

Smith was fined $50,000 and ordered to sit out for a game -- forfeiting his salary for that week -- after he made a helmet-on-helmet hit on Boldin late in the fourth quarter of the Jets' 56-35 win over the Cardinals Sept. 28.

Jets Coach Eric Mangini confirmed Smith's decision to appeal and set the NFL would rule by Tuesday. If the penalty is upheld, Smith would miss next Sunday's game against Cincinnati.

Boldin was trying to catch a high pass in the end zone when he was hit by two players, including Smith. He was taken off the field on a backboard and hospitalized for observation. While tests in New York were negative, Boldin returned to Arizona with the Cardinals. He has subsequently undergone surgery for a fractured facial bone and is out indefinitely.

Copyright 2008 by United Press International.