Ranking the top 10 Arizona Cardinals in franchise history
8. Jackie Smith, TE (1963-77)
Smith was a prototypical diamond in the rough.
Taken in the 10th round of the 1963 NFL Draft, the tight end blossomed into a Cardinals mainstay, retiring tops at his position in receptions, receiving yards, and receiving scores. He spent all but one of his 16-season odyssey in St. Louis.
A longtime Redbirds offensive co-captain and Pro Football Hall of Famer, Smith played in 121 consecutive contests to begin his career. His 7,918 receiving yards and 198 games played are third-most in franchise lore, while 40 touchdown grabs and 480 catches are sixth.
Jackie Smith Sets NFL Record
Nov. 18, 1973: Hall of Famer Jackie Smith caught his 428th career pass breaking Mike Ditka’s NFL record for most receptions by a tight end.
Smith hauled in 5 passes for 69 yards in the Cards 24-13 loss to the New York Giants. #BigRed1970s pic.twitter.com/l8BBkElNFL
— St. Louis Football Cardinals (@BigRed_STL) November 18, 2023
