Why Rod Smith Should Be In The Hall of Fame

I remember watching a sports show years ago, as a matter of fact, it was the year Rod retired. At the end of the segment, they briefly acknowledged his retirement, questioning whether he's a Ring of Famer-- he was inducted in the Broncos Ring of Fame in 2012-- or a Hall of Famer. They chose "Ring of Fame." Initially, I agreed with this answer, thinking that he was a solid receiver, but not a Hall of Famer.

Then, after paying closer attention to his numbers and accomplishments recently, I believe Rod Smith is indeed a Hall of Famer. An undrafted free agent in 1994-- I watched Rod for years; I had no idea he was an undrafted free agent-- he played his entire career in Denver, which is not a factor in my claim, but that's difficult to do in the free agency era.

He's the Broncos all-time leader in receptions (849), yards (11,389), and touchdowns (68). He currently holds 11 franchise records, along with the aforementioned, including the most receptions in a season (113 in '01), most yards from scrimmage (11,737), all-purpose yards (12,488), and total touchdowns (71). He produced 1,000+ yard seasons in eight of his thirteen years in the league.

He is the first undrafted player to reach 10,000 yards; his franchise records for receiving yards and touchdown receptions are currently the most by an undrafted player in NFL history. His career receptions are the second most by an undrafted player. Only Wes Welker, who played for Denver for a few seasons, has more receptions by an undrafted FA.

He's only the sixth player in NFL history to have 100 career receptions against at least three teams. They were the Kansas City Chiefs, San Diego Chargers, and the Oakland Raiders-- all AFC West opponents! The opponents aren't a factor either, just taking a jab at the Broncos' division rivals and their fans. He's a two-time Super Bowl champion, three-time Pro Bowler, and a two-time first-team All-Pro selection.

He's currently in the top 40 for all-time career receptions and receiving yards, ranking 27th and 31st respectively. The Broncos seem to have a penchant for finding undrafted gems, and Rod Smith was no different. He is one of the most underrated receivers I've ever watched. In closing, I've stated my case for why Rod Smith should be in the Hall of Fame. The numbers speak for themselves.