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Must-Know Facts About Dallas Cowboys Rod Smith

Trends January 13, 2025

Who is Rod Smith?

Rod Smith is a former American football wide receiver who played 14 seasons in the National Football League (NFL), primarily for the Denver Broncos. He is widely considered one of the greatest wide receivers in Broncos franchise history.

Smith was drafted by the Broncos in the second round of the 1994 NFL Draft. He quickly became a key member of the team's offense, forming a dynamic duo with quarterback John Elway. Smith was known for his exceptional route-running skills, reliable hands, and ability to make big plays in.

Over the course of his career, Smith amassed 849 receptions for 11,389 yards and 68 touchdowns. He was a two-time Pro Bowl selection and was named to the NFL's All-Decade Team of the 2000s. Smith was also a key member of the Broncos' back-to-back Super Bowl victories in 1997 and 1998.

| Name | Value ||---|---|| Full name | Roderick Oneil Smith || Born | March 6, 1970 (age 52) || Birth Place | Texarkana, Texas, U.S. || Nationality | American || Height | 5 ft 11 in (1.80 m) || Weight | 195 lb (88 kg) || Position | Wide receiver || Years active | 19942007 || College | Ohio State University || Drafted | Denver Broncos, 2nd round (36th overall), 1994 NFL Draft |

After retiring from the NFL, Smith worked as a football analyst for ESPN. He was inducted into the Broncos Ring of Fame in 2010 and the College Football Hall of Fame in 2019.

Dallas Cowboys Rod Smith

Wide receiver
Denver Broncos
Super Bowl champion
Pro Bowl selection
All-Decade Team of the 2000s
Broncos Ring of Fame
College Football Hall of Fame
ESPN analyst

Rod Smith was a key member of the Denver Broncos' back-to-back Super Bowl victories in 1997 and 1998. He was also a two-time Pro Bowl selection and was named to the NFL's All-Decade Team of the 2000s. Smith was inducted into the Broncos Ring of Fame in 2010 and the College Football Hall of Fame in 2019.

1. Wide receiver

A wide receiver (WR) is a player in American football, Canadian football, and arena football who lines up on the line of scrimmage, typically split out wide from the tackles. Wide receivers are responsible for catching passes from the quarterback and advancing the ball down the field. They are often the primary targets of the quarterback's passes, and they are typically the team's fastest and most agile players.

Route running
Wide receivers must be able to run precise routes in order to get open and create separation from defenders. They must also be able to adjust their routes based on the coverage of the defense.
Hands
Wide receivers must have strong hands in order to catch passes in traffic and make difficult catches. They must also be able to hold onto the ball after they have been hit.
Speed
Wide receivers must be fast in order to get open and create separation from defenders. They must also be able to track down deep passes.
Agility
Wide receivers must be agile in order to make quick cuts and changes of direction. They must also be able to avoid tackles and make plays in tight spaces.

Rod Smith was one of the best wide receivers in the NFL during his career. He was a master of route running and had some of the best hands in the league. He was also a very fast and agile player. Smith was a key member of the Denver Broncos' back-to-back Super Bowl victories in 1997 and 1998.

2. Denver Broncos

The Denver Broncos are a professional American football team based in Denver, Colorado. They compete in the National Football League (NFL) as a member club of the American Football Conference (AFC) West division. The Broncos have won eight American Football Conference (AFC) championships and three Super Bowls (1997, 1998, and 2015). The Broncos are the only team to win back-to-back Super Bowls twice (19971998 and 20152016).

Rod Smith played for the Denver Broncos for 14 seasons, from 1994 to 2007. He is the Broncos' all-time leader in receptions (849), receiving yards (11,389), and receiving touchdowns (68). Smith was a key member of the Broncos' back-to-back Super Bowl victories in 1997 and 1998.

The connection between the Denver Broncos and Rod Smith is significant because Smith is one of the greatest players in Broncos franchise history. He was a key member of the team's success during the late 1990s and early 2000s. Smith's contributions to the Broncos helped the team win two Super Bowls and establish itself as one of the most successful teams in the NFL.

3. Super Bowl champion

Winning a Super Bowl is the pinnacle of achievement for any NFL player. It is a testament to a player's talent, hard work, and dedication. Rod Smith was fortunate enough to win two Super Bowls with the Denver Broncos, in 1997 and 1998. These victories were the culmination of years of hard work and sacrifice, and they cemented Smith's legacy as one of the greatest Broncos players of all time.

Team success
Winning a Super Bowl is the ultimate team accomplishment. It requires all 53 players on the roster to come together and play as one unit. Smith was a key member of the Broncos' Super Bowl teams, and he played a vital role in their success.
Individual achievement
Winning a Super Bowl is also a great individual achievement. It is a testament to a player's talent and hard work. Smith was one of the most talented wide receivers in the NFL during his career, and he was a key contributor to the Broncos' success.
Legacy
Winning a Super Bowl can help to cement a player's legacy. Smith is remembered as one of the greatest Broncos players of all time, and his two Super Bowl victories are a big reason why.

Winning a Super Bowl is a rare and special achievement. Rod Smith was fortunate enough to win two Super Bowls with the Denver Broncos, and these victories helped to make him one of the greatest players in Broncos history.

4. Pro Bowl selection

The Pro Bowl is an annual all-star game in the National Football League (NFL) that showcases the best players from the previous season. Players are selected to the Pro Bowl by a vote of their peers, coaches, and fans. Rod Smith was selected to the Pro Bowl twice, in 1999 and 2000.

Recognition of excellence
Being selected to the Pro Bowl is a major honor and a testament to a player's skill and accomplishments. It is a recognition of the fact that Smith was one of the best wide receivers in the NFL at the time.
Fan appreciation
The Pro Bowl is also a way for fans to show their appreciation for the best players in the league. Smith was a fan favorite in Denver, and his selection to the Pro Bowl was a reflection of his popularity and the respect that he had earned from fans.
Motivation
Being selected to the Pro Bowl can be a motivating factor for players. It can help them to stay focused and to continue to improve their game. Smith was a hard worker and a dedicated player, and his selection to the Pro Bowl was a reflection of his commitment to excellence.
Legacy
Being selected to the Pro Bowl can help to cement a player's legacy. Smith is remembered as one of the greatest Broncos players of all time, and his two Pro Bowl selections are a big reason why.

Rod Smith's selection to the Pro Bowl is a testament to his skill, dedication, and popularity. It is a major honor that recognizes his accomplishments as one of the best wide receivers in the NFL.

5. All-Decade Team of the 2000s

The NFL All-Decade Team of the 2000s is a list of the best players at each position in the NFL during the 2000s decade. The team was selected by a panel of experts, including coaches, scouts, and media members. Rod Smith was named to the All-Decade Team at wide receiver.

Being named to the All-Decade Team is a major honor and a testament to Smith's skill and accomplishments. It is a recognition of the fact that Smith was one of the best wide receivers in the NFL during the 2000s.

Smith's selection to the All-Decade Team is also significant because it highlights his importance to the Denver Broncos. Smith was a key member of the Broncos' offense during the 2000s, and he played a vital role in the team's success. Smith's contributions to the Broncos helped the team win two Super Bowls and establish itself as one of the most successful teams in the NFL.

Overall, the connection between the All-Decade Team of the 2000s and Rod Smith is significant because it highlights Smith's skill, accomplishments, and importance to the Denver Broncos. Being named to the All-Decade Team is a major honor, and it is a testament to Smith's status as one of the best wide receivers of his generation.

6. Broncos Ring of Fame

The Broncos Ring of Fame is a prestigious honor bestowed upon the most outstanding players in the history of the Denver Broncos football team. It is the highest honor that the Broncos can bestow upon a player, and it is a testament to their exceptional contributions to the team's success.

Recognition of Excellence
Being inducted into the Broncos Ring of Fame is a recognition of a player's excellence on the field. It is a testament to their skill, dedication, and leadership. Rod Smith was inducted into the Broncos Ring of Fame in 2010, a fitting tribute to his outstanding career.
Fan Appreciation
The Broncos Ring of Fame is also a way for fans to show their appreciation for the players who have helped to make the team great. Rod Smith was a fan favorite in Denver, and his induction into the Ring of Fame was a reflection of the respect and admiration that he had earned from fans.
Legacy
Being inducted into the Broncos Ring of Fame can help to cement a player's legacy. Rod Smith is remembered as one of the greatest Broncos players of all time, and his induction into the Ring of Fame is a big reason why.

Overall, the connection between the Broncos Ring of Fame and Rod Smith is significant because it highlights Smith's skill, accomplishments, and importance to the Denver Broncos. Being inducted into the Ring of Fame is a major honor, and it is a testament to Smith's status as one of the best wide receivers of his generation.

7. College Football Hall of Fame

The College Football Hall of Fame is a hall of fame dedicated to preserving the history of college football and honoring the greatest players and coaches of the game. It was founded in 1951 and is located in Atlanta, Georgia.

Rod Smith was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2019. He is one of the most decorated players in Ohio State history, and he was a key member of the Buckeyes' 1996 national championship team. Smith was a two-time All-American and a three-time All-Big Ten selection during his college career.

Smith's induction into the College Football Hall of Fame is a testament to his outstanding college career. He is one of the most successful wide receivers in Ohio State history, and he played a key role in the Buckeyes' success during the late 1990s. Smith's induction into the Hall of Fame is also a reflection of his character and leadership. He was a hard worker and a dedicated teammate, and he always put the team first.

Overall, the connection between the College Football Hall of Fame and Rod Smith is significant because it highlights Smith's skill, accomplishments, and importance to the Ohio State Buckeyes. Being inducted into the Hall of Fame is a major honor, and it is a testament to Smith's status as one of the best wide receivers in college football history.

8. ESPN analyst

After retiring from the NFL, Rod Smith worked as a football analyst for ESPN.

Expert commentary
As an ESPN analyst, Smith provided expert commentary on NFL games and events. He shared his insights on the game, analyzed player performance, and offered his predictions on upcoming matchups.
Inside knowledge
Smith's experience as a player gave him a unique perspective on the game. He was able to provide insights into the strategies and techniques used by players and coaches, giving viewers a deeper understanding of the game.
Breaking down the game
Smith's ability to break down the game in a clear and concise way made him a valuable asset to ESPN's coverage. He was able to explain complex plays and concepts in a way that was easy for viewers to understand.
Passion for the game
Smith's passion for the game was evident in his work as an analyst. He was enthusiastic and engaging, and he always brought a positive energy to his commentary.

Rod Smith's work as an ESPN analyst helped to inform and entertain football fans. He provided valuable insights into the game and shared his passion for the sport with viewers.

FAQs about Dallas Cowboys Rod Smith

Here are some frequently asked questions about Dallas Cowboys Rod Smith, along with their answers:

Question 1: What is Rod Smith's NFL legacy?

Rod Smith is considered one of the greatest wide receivers in Denver Broncos franchise history. He was a key member of the Broncos' back-to-back Super Bowl victories in 1997 and 1998, and he was named to the NFL's All-Decade Team of the 2000s. Smith was inducted into the Broncos Ring of Fame in 2010 and the College Football Hall of Fame in 2019.

Question 2: What are Rod Smith's career statistics?

Over the course of his career, Smith amassed 849 receptions for 11,389 yards and 68 touchdowns.

Question 3: What is Rod Smith's current occupation?

After retiring from the NFL, Smith worked as a football analyst for ESPN.

Question 4: What is Rod Smith's jersey number?

Smith wore the number 80 for the Denver Broncos.

Question 5: Where did Rod Smith go to college?

Smith played college football at Ohio State University.

These are just a few of the frequently asked questions about Dallas Cowboys Rod Smith. For more information, please visit the official website of the Denver Broncos or the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Summary: Rod Smith is a former American football wide receiver who played 14 seasons in the NFL, primarily for the Denver Broncos. He is widely considered one of the greatest wide receivers in Broncos franchise history. Smith was a key member of the Broncos' back-to-back Super Bowl victories in 1997 and 1998. After retiring from the NFL, Smith worked as a football analyst for ESPN.

Transition: To learn more about Rod Smith and other notable players, please visit our NFL player profiles section.

Conclusion

Rod Smith is a former American football wide receiver who played 14 seasons in the NFL, primarily for the Denver Broncos. He is widely considered one of the greatest wide receivers in Broncos franchise history. Smith was a key member of the Broncos' back-to-back Super Bowl victories in 1997 and 1998. After retiring from the NFL, Smith worked as a football analyst for ESPN.

Smith's legacy as a player and broadcaster is one of excellence and dedication. He was a gifted athlete with a strong work ethic and a passion for the game. He was also a valuable asset to the Broncos organization and to ESPN, providing expert commentary and insights to fans.

Rod Smith's story is an inspiration to all who dream of achieving greatness. He overcame adversity to become one of the best wide receivers in NFL history. He is a role model for athletes and non-athletes alike, and his legacy will continue to inspire for years to come.