Highsmith May Be Set to Sign With Houston

Houston Oiler officials refused to confirm reports that top draft pick Alonzo Highsmith is about to sign with the team and drop his lawsuit against the National Football League.

However, Laurie Ross, an attorney working with the NFL to lift a temporary injunction making Highsmith a free agent said, “I believe an agreement has been reached in principle between the Houston Oilers and the plaintiff (Highsmith.)”

Highsmith, a former star running back at the University of Miami and the third player selected in last spring’s NFL draft, filed suit against the league, in which he accused the Oilers of failing to negotiate fairly with him. On Oct. 17, a Florida judge granted Highsmith a temporary injunction making him a free agent.

Highsmith reportedly is seeking a four-year, $3.1-million contract.