Penn State Football: Devon Smith Released from Roster, According to Report

Penn State dismissed senior wide receiver Devon Smith from the team Wednesday, according to a report by Sean Fitz of Lions 247. Smith was listed on the initial summer depth chart as a first-string wide receiver.

Smith was charged with drug possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia in late April. Police had searched Smith's residence while investigating a burglary in March that led them to Smith's apartment, which he shared with defensive end Jack Crawford.

"Devon's a good kid," Bill O'Brien said last month, explaining:

"

He's a guy that's been around for a long time and he's a guy that I believe in. Any punishment that takes place between Devon and the football program will be between Devon and myself...He'll have to appear in court, I'm sure, on a certain date, and we'll let the process play out from there.

"

Smith was Penn State's third-leading wide receiver in 2011, with 402 yards and two touchdowns. Used primarily for his speed, Smith was expected initially to provide Penn State with a deep threat able to outrun defenders. Smith was also used on special teams in past years.

With Smith out of the picture, look to redshirt sophomore Alex Kenney to be elevated to the first string spot at the now vacant wide receiver position.

Other projected starters include Justin Brown (senior) at one spot, and either Allen Robinson (sophomore) or Shawney Kersey (redshirt junior). On the depth chart, Kenney was listed second behind Smith.

Penn State recently dismissed defensive back Curtis Drake from the roster as well.

Kevin McGuire is the host of the No 2-Minute Warning podcast, managing editor of Nittany Lions Den and a member of the Football Writers Association of America and National Football Foundation. Follow him on Twitter, like him on Facebook and add him to your Google+ circle.