Smith's early years with the Cowboys were marked by his ability to consistently gain yardage and score touchdowns. In his first season, he rushed for 937 yards and scored 11 touchdowns, earning him the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award. This was just the beginning of a career that would see him become the NFL's all-time leading rusher.
Throughout the 1990s, Smith was a cornerstone of the Cowboys' dynasty, helping lead the team to three Super Bowl victories in four years (Super Bowl XXVII, XXVIII, and XXX). His performance in Super Bowl XXVIII was particularly memorable, as he was named the game's Most Valuable Player after rushing for 132 yards and two touchdowns. Smith's ability to perform under pressure and in critical games was a hallmark of his career.
Smith's running style was characterized by his vision, balance, and ability to break tackles. He was known for his durability and consistency, attributes that allowed him to achieve numerous milestones. In 1993, he became the first player in NFL history to win the league's rushing title, the NFL MVP award, and the Super Bowl MVP award in the same season. This trifecta underscored his dominance on the field.
Over the course of his career with the Cowboys, Smith led the NFL in rushing yards four times and was selected to the Pro Bowl eight times. He was also named a first-team All-Pro four times, further cementing his status as one of the greatest running backs in the history of the league. His ability to find the end zone was unmatched, as he led the league in rushing touchdowns three times.
In 2002, Smith surpassed Walter Payton's career rushing record of 16,726 yards, becoming the NFL's all-time leading rusher. This achievement was a testament to his longevity and productivity over the years. Smith finished his career with 18,355 rushing yards and 164 rushing touchdowns, records that still stand today.
After leaving the Cowboys in 2002, Smith signed with the Arizona Cardinals, where he played for two more seasons before retiring in 2004. Although his time with the Cardinals was not as prolific as his years in Dallas, Smith continued to demonstrate his skill and professionalism on the field.
Smith's career was not only defined by his individual accomplishments but also by his role in one of the most successful teams in NFL history. His contributions to the Cowboys' success in the 1990s are remembered as a key part of the team's legacy. In 2010, Smith was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, a fitting recognition for a player who achieved so much during his time in the league.
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