Raiders coach Jack Del Rio somewhat defends CB Sean Smith

Jack Del Rio has defending cornerback Sean Smith for allegedly beating up his sister's boyfriend. Sort of.

The Raiders coach didn't discuss the incident too much, but did say Smith was "defending his sister," making the alleged assault seem understandable.

“I think we’ll let him battle legally what issues he has,” Del Rio said, via sfgate.com. “I don’t really have anything to add to it. I mean, I think you heard the story. He was defending his sister. Obviously, things occurred that were taken issue with, so he’s having to defend himself right now.”

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Raiders' Sean Smith arrested on felony assault charges from July 4 incident

Del Rio did allow Smith to play in the Raiders' second preseason game one day after his arrest on Aug. 18, which also shows the Raiders likely won't punish Smith (if he is punished at all) until his arraignment on Sept. 29.

Smith's lawyer said the 30-year-old plans on pleading not guilty after he was charged with felony assault and battery with serious bodily injury for the July 4 incident.