Undrafted in 1995, Broncos receiver Rod Smith will cap his career by joining the franchise’s Ring of Fame.
The team announced on Thursday that Smith will become the 23rd member of the organization to receive the recognition. He’ll be inducted at halftime of the team’s September 23 game against the Texans.
Smith holds franchise regular-season records for receptions with 849, receiving yards with 11,389, and receiving touchdowns with 68. He also owns the Broncos’ postseason marks for catches (49), yards (860), and touchdowns (6).
“You couldn’t ask for a better teammate than Rod Smith,” Broncos executive V.P. of football operations and former Smith teammate John Elway said in a team-issued release. “His work ethic, the way he competed and the positive influence he had on others were all qualities that made him one of the best. What a great Bronco who is so deserving of being honored as a member of the Ring of Fame.
“Although he had plenty of catches and touchdowns in his career, the only things that mattered to Rod were winning and competing for Super Bowls. That’s what was most important to him, and it showed in everything he did. Whether it was in the passing game or running game, you always knew Rod would give 100 percent on every play and do whatever it took to help his team win.
“Rod brought his lunch pail to work each day, took nothing for granted and made himself into an elite player. He’s a true pro. In addition to being one of the greatest undrafted players of all time, he’s one of the greatest wide receivers to ever play the position.”
Smith played for the Broncos from 1995 through 2006. He’s the third receiver to make it onto the Broncos’ Ring of Fame. Previously, the award was given to Haven Moses and Lionel Taylor.