Biography
Jerry Smith, born on July 19, 1943, in Los Angeles, California, was a prominent NFL tight end who played for the Washington Redskins from 1965 to 1977. A standout at the University of California, Smith was selected in the seventh round of the 1965 NFL Draft. He quickly made a name for himself as a reliable pass-catcher and exceptional blocker, contributing to his team's offense throughout his career.
During his time with the Redskins, Smith became known for his exceptional athleticism and ability to create mismatches against defenders. He was selected for the Pro Bowl on three occasions (1969, 1970, and 1971) and established numerous franchise records, including being one of the first tight ends to achieve over 5,000 receiving yards. Smith's versatility on the field helped pave the way for future generations of tight ends, as he demonstrated the importance of the position in the passing game.
Off the field, Jerry Smith was an advocate for the LGBTQ+ community, particularly after coming out posthumously in the late 1990s, which sparked discussions about sexuality in professional sports. His legacy includes not only his impressive on-field achievements but also his courage in addressing issues of identity and acceptance within the athletic community. Smith passed away on June 24, 1986, but his contributions to both football and social change continue to be recognized.