Jerry Smith was a professional football player who played as a tight end for the Washington Redskins from 1965 to 1977. He was born on July 19, 1943, in Charleston, West Virginia, and attended West Virginia University, where he played college football.
Smith was drafted by the Redskins in the ninth round of the 1965 NFL Draft. He quickly established himself as one of the best tight ends in the league, earning Pro Bowl honors in 1967, 1969, and 1970. He was also named to the All-Pro team in 1967 and 1969.
Smith was known for his excellent receiving skills and his ability to make big plays. He was a favorite target of Redskins quarterback Sonny Jurgensen, and the two formed a formidable duo on the field. Smith finished his career with 421 receptions for 5,496 yards and 60 touchdowns.
Off the field, Smith was known for his quiet demeanor and his dedication to his teammates. He was a respected leader in the Redskins locker room and was known for his work ethic and his commitment to the game.
Tragically, Smith's career was cut short by illness. In 1972, he was diagnosed with AIDS, which at the time was a little-known disease that was often associated with homosexuality. Smith kept his illness a secret from his teammates and the public, fearing that he would be ostracized if his condition became known.
Smith continued to play for the Redskins for several more seasons, but his health began to deteriorate. He retired from football in 1974 and passed away on October 15, 1986, at the age of 43.
Despite the tragic end to his career and his life, Jerry Smith remains one of the greatest tight ends in NFL history. He was posthumously inducted into the Washington Redskins Ring of Fame in 2007, and his legacy continues to inspire football players and fans alike.
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