Emmitt Smith

Early Years

Born in Pensacola, Florida to Mary and Emmit Smith Jr., Emmit Smith (there was only one "T" back then) developed a love of football -- and a taste for stardom -- early in life. In fact, young Smith led his high school football team to their first ever State Championship while he was just a sophomore, and repeated the feat as a junior. At the end of his high school years, the profilic running back had amassed an astounding 106 touchdowns and 8,804 yards.

Smith's impressive run continued into his college career, where he set 58 records for the University of Florida Gators.

NFL Career

Emmitt Smith opted to enter the draft in 1990, his senior year of college, and was drafted in the first round by the Dallas Cowboys. The Cowboys, headed by Coach Jimmy Johnson, were in a period of rebuilding and young Emmitt quickly became central to the team's offense. Emmitt spent the next 12 years with the Cowboys, earning numerous awards and achievements such as:

• AP Offensive Rookie of the Year (1990)
• Super Bowl Championships (three)
• Lead the NFL in rushing
• League MVP in 1993
• MVP of Super Bowl XXVII
• Pro Bowl appearances (eight)

On October 27, 2002, Smith reached one of his most significant milestones. He beat the All-Time Leading Rushing Record set by his childhood hero, Walter Payton. To this day, Emmitt Smith is still the NFL's All-Time Leading Rusher with 18,355 yards. He also holds the running back record for all-time career touchdowns. Smith finished his career with the Arizona Cardinals and retired in 2004. In 2005, he was inducted into the Cowboys Ring of Honor.

In addition to his touchdown prowess, Emmitt Smith is also known for his grace, balance, and agility on the field. He has often been called one of the most complete players of the game.

Emmitt with Dancing partner Cheryl Burke

Personal Life

Smith and Patricia Southall, the ex-wife of comedian Martin Lawrence, were married on April 22, 2000. The couple welcomed their first child, Emmitt Smith IV, on Emmitt's birthday in 2002. The couple now have four children.

Dancing with the Stars

In 1996, Emmitt Smith joined the third season of the popular reality show Dancing with the Stars, and was partnered with second season winner Cheryl Burke. The third season was wrought with controversy, with Sara Evans abruptly withdrawing due to marital problems. Rumors also swirled that dancing couples were taking their moves out of the ballroom and into the bedroom. There was also considerable fan discontent with the new voting system.

Ever the professional, he was able to rise above the drama. In true Emmitt Smith fashion, he worked to successfully translate his football moves onto the dance floor, winning the hearts of fans around the country. Smith and Burke sailed into the finals and danced opposite Mario Lopez and Karina Smirnoff. While some argued that Lopez possessed more technical skill, there was no denying Smith's charm and grace. In the end, entertainment won over precision, and Emmitt and Cheryl danced their way to victory in November 2006.

Emmitt Smith Trivia

• Smith has two sisters and three brothers.
• Smith used his off-season time to complete his college degree. He earned his Bachelor's Degree in Public Recreation in 1996.
• A mistake on a school paper led to "Emmit" being spelled "Emmitt". Smith liked the spelling, and made it permanent.
• His childhood nickname was Scoey.
• Smith was ranked 68 on the 1999 list of 100 Greatest Football Players.
• Smith will be eligible for inclusion in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2010.