Emmitt Smith was born on May 15, 1969 in Pensacola, Florida. Although Smith was never the biggest player on the football field he always had the heart of a lion. When it came down to winning time Smith was always there to pick up the slack. This will to win was in addition to a high level of physical and mental strength. With all of that to work with it is easy to see why many people consider Smith to be the greatest running back ever.
After a successful high school career Smith decided to take his game to the University of Florida. From the moment that he set foot on campus it was obvious that he was going to be a start. While at the school he set many records; some of which still stand today. In fact, in the very first game that he ever started Smith broke the school record for rushing yards in a game.
Smith decided to declare himself eligible for the NFL Draft after his junior season. During his time at Florida he rushed for nearly 4,000 yards and 36 touchdowns. His junior year was his best. It was during this year that he was named first team All American, first team All SEC, SEC Player of the Year, and finished seventh for the Heisman Trophy.
In the 1990 NFL Draft, Smith was selection with the 17th pick in the first round by the Dallas Cowboys. In his first year in the league he rushed for 937 yards on 241 carries. Smith continued to put up similar numbers up until the 2003 season when he left the Cowboys and signed with the Arizona Cardinals.
Emmitt Smith finished with the most career rushing yards and touchdowns in NFL history. This is saying a lot considering all of the great running backs who have played in the league.
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