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The Rod Smith Story

Rod Smith, born on May 15, 1970, in Texarkana, Arkansas, defied the odds to become one of the most prolific...

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FOOTBALL TEAM | Denver Broncos

"The Rod Smith Story: From Undrafted to Dynasty"

Last updated 📅 2025-05-14

Rod Smith, born on May 15, 1970, in Texarkana, Arkansas, defied the odds to become one of the most prolific wide receivers in Denver Broncos history. His journey from an undrafted free agent to a key player in two Super Bowl victories is a testament to his dedication and talent.  

College Career:

Smith enjoyed a stellar career at Missouri Southern State University. A two-time All-MIAA selection (1992-1993), he set five conference records, including career receiving yards (3,122) and touchdowns (35). In 1993, he earned First-team All-American honors and was a finalist for the Harlon Hill Trophy, awarded to the top NCAA Division II football player. Smith also excelled academically, graduating with three degrees. Missouri Southern retired his No. 9 jersey in recognition of his achievements.  

Road to the Pro Game:

Despite his impressive college statistics, Smith went undrafted in the 1994 NFL Draft. However, the Denver Broncos signed him as a free agent. He spent his rookie season on the practice squad before making the active roster in 1995. His first NFL reception was a game-winning touchdown pass from John Elway, hinting at the successful career to come.  

Football Legacy:

Rod Smith played his entire 13-year NFL career (1995-2007) with the Denver Broncos, becoming a cornerstone of their offense. Known for his reliability, route-running precision, and strong hands, he was instrumental in the Broncos' Super Bowl XXXII and XXXIII victories. Smith retired as the Broncos' all-time leader in receptions (849), receiving yards (11,389), and touchdown receptions (68). He also holds the distinction of being the most productive undrafted receiver in NFL history in these categories for a significant period. A three-time Pro Bowler (2000, 2001, 2005) and two-time Second-team All-Pro (2000, 2001), Smith's consistent excellence made him a fan favorite and a Denver Broncos legend. He was inducted into the Denver Broncos Ring of Fame in 2012 and the College Football Hall of Fame in 2009.  

Accolades, Awards, and Career Stats:

✦ 2x Super Bowl Champion (XXXII, XXXIII)  

✦ 3x Pro Bowl (2000, 2001, 2005)

✦ 2x Second-team All-Pro (2000, 2001)  

✦ NFL Receptions Leader (2001)

✦ Denver Broncos Ring of Fame

✦ Denver Broncos 50th Anniversary Team

✦ First-team DII All-American (1993)

✦ 2x First-team All-MIAA (1992, 1993)  

✦ Missouri Southern Lions No. 9 retired  

✦ College Football Hall of Fame (2009)

✦ NFL Career Stats: 183 games, 849 receptions, 11,389 receiving yards, 68 receiving touchdowns.  

  • HASHTAGS: #May15 #RodSmith #WideReceiver #DenverBroncos #Number09 #Number80 #ArkansasState #CollegeFootballHallofFame
  • DOB: May 15
  • EVENTDAY: May 15
  • FOOTBALL NAME: Rod Smith
  • FOOTBALL POSITION: Wide Receiver
  • FOOTBALL TEAM: Denver Broncos
  • NCAAF JERSEY: Number 09
  • NFL JERSEY: Number 80
  • OTHER: Arkansas State
  • SPORTS: College Football Hall of Fame
football team

"Denver Broncos Franchise History"

Get ready to dive into the electrifying world of the Denver Broncos! With their iconic orange and blue jerseys, loyal "Mile High Magic" fans, and a legacy etched in Super Bowl glory, this franchise offers a captivating story waiting to be explored.
Our journey begins in 1959, where we'll witness the team's birth amidst a fledgling American Football League. We'll navigate early struggles, chart unexpected triumphs, and meet the legendary figures who shaped the Broncos' identity. From the "Orange Crush" defense to the John Elway era, we'll relive iconic moments that sent shivers down the spines of devoted fans. But our exploration goes beyond just wins and losses. We'll delve into the cultural impact of the Broncos, their influence on Denver and beyond, and the unique challenges they faced along the way. We'll meet the passionate personalities, both on and off the field, who fueled the Broncos' journey and solidified their place in sports history. Get ready to dive into the electrifying world of the Denver Broncos!..
FOOTBALL TEAM | Denver Broncos

"The 1983 Trade of John Elway"

The 1983 NFL Draft is renowned for its exceptional quarterback class, featuring Hall of Famers John Elway, Jim Kelly, and Dan Marino. However, one of the most significant events surrounding that draft was the trade that sent John Elway, the number one overall pick, to the Denver Broncos. This move not only altered the course of Elway's career but also had a profound and lasting impact on the Denver Broncos franchise.
The story begins on April 26, 1983, when the Baltimore Colts, under the ownership of Robert Irsay, selected Elway from Stanford University with the first overall pick. Elway, a highly touted quarterback with a strong arm and exceptional athleticism, was widely considered the top prospect in the draft...
FOOTBALL TEAM | Denver Broncos

"Thomas Retires a Bronco"

June 28, 2021 - Former Denver Broncos wide receiver Demaryius Thomas retires from playing in the NF,L according to NFL.com.

Demaryius was the first receiver taken in the 2010 NFL Draft. Thomas developed into an athletic mismatch and a yards-after-catch demon, especially after Peyton Manning joined the Broncos in 2012. Thomas emerged as the Broncos' No. 1 receiver and would earn five straight Pro Bowl selections as the team's number one receiver.

For his career, Thomas had 724 receptions for 9,763 yards and 63 TDs. Thomas ranks 53rd all-time in receiving yards in NFL history at the time of his retirement.