Wednesday, April 2, 2008

Paul Smith






Paul Smith was a dominant defensive tackle for the Broncos from 1968 to 1978. He played collegiately at New Mexico and was a 9th round draft choice of the Broncos. He wore number 70. He passed away in 2000 after a bout with pancreatic cancer. He was inducted into the Broncos ring of fame in 1986. From the Broncos website:

Smith posted 55 sacks for his career, sixth-most on the Broncos' all-time list. He also posted 11 sacks in both the 1972 and 1973 seasons, propelling him to back-to-back Pro Bowl appearances. Smith was one of the leaders during the years when Denver was establishing its reputation for defensive excellence with the famed "Orange Crush." His head coach, John Ralston, once said that Smith was "the finest defensive tackle in pro football." Smith's 11-year career was the longest in Broncos annals until he was surpassed by fellow Ring of Famer Billy Thompson. He was the first 10-year man in Broncos history.


1 comment:

Brett Wiersma said...

Nothing good ever comes out of New Mexico, usually.