Emmitt Smith Ends Holdout With Cowboys

Emmitt Smith ended the longest rookie holdout in Dallas Cowboys history today by signing with the NFL club.

Owner Jerry Jones announced the signing, but terms were not disclosed.

Smith, the 17th player selected in the draft, set 58 Florida records as a running back before leaving school with a year of eligibility remaining.

He signed up for 12 hours of classes and returned to school late last month after failing to reach agreement with Dallas.

Smith was 42 hours shy of a degree in public recreation.

Before his return to classes, the Cowboys reportedly were offering Smith a five-year deal worth $3.2 million. Smith was seeking a three-year, $2.3-million package.

Since he had entered the draft, Smith could not return to college football. His holdout lasted 48 days.