Jackie Smith: NFL Career Overview

Date of Birth: February 23, 1940
Position: Tight End (TE)

Career Timeline

• St. Louis Cardinals (1963–1977)
  • Jackie Smith was drafted in the 10th round of the 1963 NFL Draft by the St. Louis Cardinals.
  • He quickly established himself as a premier tight end in the league.
  • Smith was known for his exceptional receiving skills and ability to create mismatches against defenders.
  • He played 15 seasons with the Cardinals, making a significant impact on the team's offense.
• Dallas Cowboys (1978)
  • In 1978, Smith signed with the Dallas Cowboys, where he played his final NFL season.
  • He was part of the Cowboys team that reached Super Bowl XII, although they did not win the championship.

Career Highlights and Accomplishments

• Selected to 5 Pro Bowls during his career (1965, 1966, 1968, 1970, 1971).
• Named a First-Team All-Pro in 1967 and 1969.
• Inducted into the St. Louis Sports Hall of Fame.
• Recognized for his contributions to the game and his exemplary performance as a tight end.
• Known for one of the most infamous moments in Super Bowl history when he dropped a touchdown pass in Super Bowl XIII with the Cowboys.

Legacy

Jackie Smith remains a respected figure in NFL history, particularly for his time with the St. Louis Cardinals. His contributions to the tight end position and the game as a whole have left a lasting impact. He is remembered not just for his stats and accolades, but also for his dedication and sportsmanship throughout his career.