"Any player wants a long-term deal, that's what you want, to feel secure in your job and in your family's position," Smith said.

"I'm OK with it right now, but I definitely would have preferred a long-term deal. Who knows? But I didn't even think I would get this. Maybe they [agent Brian Mackler and the Eagles] can get something worked out later on."

Both Smith and an Eagles source said today that the sides will continue to discuss a long-term deal.

Smith did not absolutely commit to signing the tender, saying he wanted to discuss it further with Mackler.

"I've always wanted to be in Philly, but my agent is going to give me every option that is out there before I sign anything," he said.

If he re-signs with the Eagles, he would receive a 1-year contract worth the average of the five highest-paid players at his position. That figure is $4.522 million.

If Smith were to receive an offer from another team, the Eagles would have 7 days to match. If they choose not to match, they would receive two first-round draft choices as compensation. From a practical standpoint, that ensures no team will make an offer.

Today was the first day teams could franchise players.

The Eagles have not fared well with the franchise tag - they ended up releasing their two previous tagees, Jeremiah Trotter in 2003 and Corey Simon in 2005. But as Smith noted, "Those were unique situations."

Smith said he figures the Eagles want him to prove he can be healthy and productive, and "at this point, I am willing to do that."

Smith was hampered by injuries last season and had only 22 receptions for 236 yards with a touchdown in 10 games. He was inactive for the last three games - all Eagles wins - with a knee injury. He was limited in training camp because of a groin injury.

"I understand why I didn't get a long-term deal," he said. "I wasn't able to perform at a high level for a majority of the season and I didn't even finish the season healthy. From a business standpoint, I definitely understand why I didn't get a long-term deal. But that's still something you want as a player. Am I torn? I guess you could say a little bit."

Smith said he has recovered from the groin and knee injuries that ruined his 2007 season.

"L.J. Smith has been a very productive tight end in our offense," coach Andy Reid said in a statement. "He is healthy and working his tail off so he can have a very successful 2008 season."

For his career, Smith has 194 receptions for 2,227 yards with 15 touchdowns. He was a second-round draft pick out of Rutgers in 2003. *