Houston Texans defensive end Antonio Smith has revealed that he has forgiven himself and Miami Dolphins guard Richie Incognito for the incident that resulted in him landing a suspension for the first game of the season.

Smith knocked the helmet of the veteran offensive lineman and swung it at him after Incognito had grabbed his facemask at the end of a play in the two sides' pre-season clash.

"Days after that situation I just let it go," Smith told KRIV-TV.

"I forgave him. I forgave myself. The thing that hurt me the worst is letting down my brothers.

"That's how I've always been. I've always been the type of person that fights for the things that he loves and that's why I'm so passionate."

Houston face the San Diego Chargers in their season opener next Monday.