Smith, Emmitt (1969-…), became the leading rusher in National Football League (NFL) history when he broke Walter Payton’s 16,726-yard rushing record in 2002. Smith played for the Dallas Cowboys of the NFL from 1990 to 2002 (see Dallas Cowboys ). He led the NFL in rushing four seasons and in touchdowns three seasons. He holds the NFL record for career rushing yards (18,355), rushing attempts (4,409), and touchdowns (164). Smith became the first player in NFL history to rush for more than 1,000 yards in 11 consecutive seasons. He was selected the NFL’s Most Valuable Player in 1993. He was a star on Dallas teams that won the Super Bowl in 1993, 1994, and 1996.
As a player, Smith stood 5 feet 9 inches (175 centimeters) tall and weighed about 210 pounds (95 kilograms). Although small for an NFL running back, he was exceptionally durable, leading the NFL in rushing attempts three times. Smith had the power to gain difficult short yardage and the speed to break away for long gains.
Emmitt James Smith III was born in Pensacola, Florida, on May 15, 1969. He attended the University of Florida, setting season and career rushing records there. He left college in 1990 after his junior year, and Dallas chose him as the 17th player in the NFL draft later that year. Smith was released by Dallas after the 2002 season. In 2003, he signed a contract to play with the Arizona Cardinals. Smith announced his retirement as a player in 2005. Smith and his dance partner Cheryl Burke won the television contest “Dancing with the Stars” in 2006. Smith was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2010.
