The Greatest Football Players in History: Then vs Now

Emmitt Smith ran like he had something to prove every down. In the 1990s, no player was more reliable, more punishing, or more clutch. He carried the Dallas Cowboys through their championship years with heart and stamina, grinding out yards when defenses already knew what was coming — and couldn’t stop him.

Off the field, he was all focus and humility. Fame never seemed to rattle him. He loved the work, the preparation, the quiet moments that made Sundays possible. While teammates grabbed headlines for flash and controversy, Smith stayed grounded in family, faith, and the pursuit of excellence.