Emmitt Smith is a legendary figure in Football, renowned for his exceptional career as a running back in the National Football League (NFL). Drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in 1990 with the 17th overall pick, Smith quickly made his mark by winning NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year honors and achieving significant rushing milestones, including 937 yards and 11 touchdowns in his first season. Over his illustrious career, Smith rushed for an astounding 18,355 yards, a record that stands as the all-time highest in NFL history, and he secured 164 career rushing touchdowns, further cementing his legacy.
Smith’s tenure with the Cowboys was marked by unprecedented accomplishments. He was a pivotal member of “The Triplets,” alongside quarterback Troy Aikman and wide receiver Michael Irvin, leading the team to three Super Bowl victories in the 1990s. Notably, in the 1993 season, Smith became the only running back to win the NFL Most Valuable Player award, the rushing crown, and the Super Bowl MVP award in the same year. His extraordinary capacity to perform consistently allowed him to lead the league in rushing multiple times and set several franchise records, including the most rushing yards in a season for the Cowboys.
After retiring from the Cowboys in 2002, Smith concluded his career with the Arizona Cardinals, where he continued to demonstrate his skills, amassing 1,193 rushing yards in his final two seasons. Upon retirement, Smith transitioned into various ventures including real estate development, where he established Smith/Cypress Partners, showcasing his acumen in commercial development.
Beyond his impactful sports career, Smith has actively engaged in philanthropy through his charity, the Pat & Emmitt Smith Charities. He has worked tirelessly to improve the lives of children, emphasizing education and resources to help young people reach their full potential. Smith’s post-football pursuits include roles as a media analyst, author, and a participant in reality television; he won the third season of Dancing with the Stars, highlighting his versatility and charisma beyond the football field.