Daryl Smith is a former American football linebacker who played in the National Football League (NFL) for over a decade. He was born on March 14, 1982, in Albany, Georgia, and attended Georgia Tech, where he played college football for the Yellow Jackets.
Smith was selected by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the second round of the 2004 NFL Draft. He spent the first nine seasons of his career with the Jaguars, where he established himself as one of the team's most reliable and consistent players. He played in 126 games for the Jaguars, starting 122 of them, and recorded 1,089 tackles, 21.5 sacks, and nine interceptions.
In 2013, Smith signed with the Baltimore Ravens as a free agent. He played two seasons for the Ravens, starting all 32 games and recording 211 tackles, 5.5 sacks, and two interceptions. He was a key member of the Ravens' defense during their run to the playoffs in 2014.
After the 2014 season, Smith signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He played two seasons for the Buccaneers, starting 29 of 32 games and recording 240 tackles, 4.5 sacks, and two interceptions. He was released by the Buccaneers in March 2017 and did not play in the NFL again.
Throughout his career, Smith was known for his durability, consistency, and versatility. He was a reliable tackler and a solid pass rusher, and he was also capable of dropping back into coverage and making plays on the ball. He was a respected leader in the locker room and was known for his work ethic and professionalism.
Off the field, Smith was active in the community and was known for his charitable work. He established the Daryl Smith Foundation in 2008, which focused on providing educational opportunities and resources for underprivileged children in his hometown of Albany, Georgia.
Overall, Daryl Smith had a successful career in the NFL, playing for three different teams and establishing himself as one of the league's most consistent and reliable linebackers. He retired with 1,103 tackles, 30.5 sacks, and 12 interceptions, and he was widely respected by his peers and coaches for his work ethic, leadership, and professionalism.
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