Dennis Smith, the renowned safety who wore number 24, is one name that frequently comes up when considering the famous past of the Denver Broncos. Smith holds a special position in Broncos legend due to his remarkable tenure with the team from 1981 to 1994, which had a profound impact on both the NFL and the team.
On February 3, 1959, Dennis Smith was born in Santa Monica, California. Early on, he demonstrated his athletic ability by dominating football at Santa Monica High School. He was awarded a scholarship at the University of Southern California (USC) due to his outstanding high school performance, where he furthered his education and established himself as a hard-hitting safety. Smith was an integral member of USC’s strong defensive line and helped the Trojans win many games. He was a top pick in the NFL Draft due to his outstanding collegiate career.
Dennis Smith was chosen by the Denver Broncos with the fifteenth overall choice in the first round of the 1981 NFL Draft. Smith’s physicality, leadership abilities, and aggressive playing style had an instant effect during his first season. Throughout his 14-year tenure with the Broncos, Smith established a reputation for his fierce hits, superb tackling skills, and astute game acumen. He was a vital member of the Broncos’ defense because he was a versatile safety who was excellent in both run and pass coverage.
Smith’s domination on the field is demonstrated by his career statistics. In addition to 15 sacks and 30 interceptions, he totaled 1,171 tackles. Three All-Pro choices and six Pro Bowl selections (1985, 1986, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1993) were his rewards for his ability to read offenses and produce clutch plays. Smith became one of the players with the longest contract in Broncos history by playing in 184 games thanks to his reliable performances and longevity.
Dennis Smith was a part of several significant events that shaped his reputation over his career. His senior leadership and important postseason performances were vital in the Broncos’ three Super Bowl appearances in the 1980s (Super Bowl XXI, XXII, and XXIV). Despite the Broncos’ lackluster results in these Super Bowls, Smith’s performances consistently provided hope, displaying his skill on the grandest platform.
Smith was well-known off the field for his mentoring and leadership qualities, which shaped the careers of younger players and enhanced the Broncos organization’s culture as a whole. His devotion to the game and his pursuit of perfection set the bar high for upcoming Broncos players.
Dennis Smith’s influence on the game and the Broncos persisted even after he retired in 1994. He was admitted into the Denver Broncos Ring of Fame in 2001, an accolade given only to the best players in the organization. The respect and adoration that fans, teammates, and opponents who saw his extraordinary career have for him also contributes to his legacy.
There is no denying Dennis Smith’s contributions to the Denver Broncos. His tremendous skill, leadership, and love of the game cement his reputation as one of the finest safeties to have ever played for the club. Honoring Dennis Smith as one of the best players in Bronco history pays tribute to his extraordinary career and the enduring influence he has had on the team.
