The Jacksonville Jaguars announced on Tuesday that former wide receiver Jimmy Smith will finally be inducted into the Pride of the Jaguars this season. Jaguars owner Shad Khan made the announcement and it's long over due for the franchise all-time leading receiver and quite frankly, should have gone in prior to some players already in the Pride. Smith's off field issues have been long documented, but it's also clear the past few years he's put his life back together and is on the right track.
"There is no question that Jimmy Smith was one of the best players to ever wear a Jaguars uniform," Khan said in a team statement. "His contributions in the early years were critical to the success the Jaguars enjoyed during that time. The fact that most of his records have stood for 10 years without being surpassed underscores what a great player he was. I wish I had personally seen Jimmy play more frequently but I am very happy that we will appropriately honor him at EverBank Field in December."
Smith was a five-time Pro Bowler, tied with Tony Boselli for most in franchise history. He was selected to five consecutive Pro Bowls from 1997-2001, during the height of the franchises success in the early years, which included four straight playoff appearances and two AFC Championship games.
Originally signed as a free agent in 1995 finished his career with 862 receptions, 12,287 yards and 67 touchdown receptions, all of which are franchise records. Smith also holds the single season records for both receptions, yards and the franchise record for yards in a game with 291.
Smith will join the aforementioned Tony Boselli, Fred Taylor, Mark Brunell, and Wayne and Delores Weaver in the Pride.
Smith will be inducted into the Pride of the Jaguars in December during the game against the Minnesota Vikings.