What year did Emmitt Smith retire? This question often comes up when discussing the greatest running backs in NFL history. Emmitt Smith, known for his incredible career and numerous achievements, finally hung up his cleats in 2009. His retirement marked the end of an era for the Dallas Cowboys and the NFL as a whole.
Emmitt Smith’s retirement came after a remarkable 15-year career with the Dallas Cowboys. During this time, he became the all-time leading rusher in NFL history, surpassing the legendary Walter Payton. Smith’s retirement was a bittersweet moment for fans, as they had to say goodbye to one of the greatest players to ever grace the gridiron.
Born on May 31, 1971, in Pensacola, Florida, Emmitt Smith was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in the first round of the 1990 NFL Draft. From the very beginning, it was clear that he had the potential to be a special player. Over the course of his career, Smith accumulated 18,355 rushing yards and 164 rushing touchdowns, making him the all-time leader in both categories.
In addition to his rushing yards and touchdowns, Smith was also a threat in the passing game. He caught 58 passes for 472 yards and three touchdowns during his career. His versatility and ability to contribute in various aspects of the game made him a true triple-threat running back.
Throughout his career, Smith was a consistent performer, leading the league in rushing yards in five different seasons. He was also a six-time Pro Bowl selection and a three-time First Team All-Pro. In 1993, he was named the NFL Offensive Player of the Year, further solidifying his status as one of the best players in the league.
As his career came to a close, Smith faced the inevitable question of when he would retire. After much speculation and anticipation, it was announced on March 5, 2009, that Emmitt Smith would retire. The announcement came as a shock to many, as Smith had been hinting at a potential return for the 2009 season. However, after much contemplation, he decided that it was time to move on and enjoy the rest of his life.
Emmitt Smith’s retirement was celebrated by fans and teammates alike. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2010, further cementing his legacy as one of the greatest running backs in NFL history. What year did Emmitt Smith retire? The answer is 2009, but his impact on the game will forever be remembered.
