Steve Smith Sr. is a former American football wide receiver who played in the National Football League (NFL) for 16 seasons. He was born on May 12, 1979, in Los Angeles, California, and attended the University of Utah, where he played college football for the Utah Utes.
Smith was drafted by the Carolina Panthers in the third round of the 2001 NFL Draft. He spent the first 13 seasons of his career with the Panthers, where he became one of the most productive and popular players in franchise history. He was known for his toughness, speed, and ability to make big plays.
During his time with the Panthers, Smith was selected to five Pro Bowls and was named First-Team All-Pro twice. He also helped lead the team to the Super Bowl in 2004, where they lost to the New England Patriots. Smith finished his career with the Panthers as the team's all-time leader in receptions, receiving yards, and receiving touchdowns.
In 2014, Smith was released by the Panthers and signed with the Baltimore Ravens. He played three seasons with the Ravens, where he continued to be a productive player despite his advancing age. In his first season with the Ravens, he recorded over 1,000 receiving yards and was named to the Pro Bowl.
Smith retired from the NFL after the 2016 season, finishing his career with 1,031 receptions for 14,731 yards and 81 touchdowns. He ranks seventh all-time in career receiving yards and 12th all-time in career receptions. He was also known for his contributions as a return specialist, recording four career punt return touchdowns and two kickoff return touchdowns.
Off the field, Smith was known for his philanthropic work and his outspoken personality. He founded the Steve Smith Family Foundation, which provides resources and support to underprivileged children and families. He was also known for his fiery personality on the field, often getting into confrontations with opponents and teammates alike.
Overall, Steve Smith Sr. was one of the most dynamic and productive wide receivers of his generation. He was a fan favorite in both Carolina and Baltimore and will be remembered as one of the greatest players in the history of both franchises.
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