When the NFL’s all-time leading rusher Emmitt Smith announced his retirement during Super Bowl week before a packed crowd of journalists, the former Dallas Cowboys great had three full sheets of people to thank for helping in his Hall of Fame-bound career.
But Smith started the Feb. 3 news conference by stating what was most important to him as a player and now a professional football retiree.
“First of all, I want to thank my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ,” Smith said boldly as dozens of camera flashes went off in the media crowd. “I owe Him everything I have and everything I am and every fiber of my being belongs to Him.”
While the news media from around the world were quick to praise Smith for his spectacular deeds on the football field, even giving him a standing ovation when he finished, Emmitt said the love of his wife, Pat, and his three kids – Rheagan, Jasmin and E.J.- were more important than continuing his football career in another town.
Ups and downs
“I had offers from other teams, but I didn’t want to keep moving my family all around the country. I wanted to come home, get them with their friends and get back in our church.”
Smith has formed an accountability group with former Cowboys and fellow Potter’s House church members Michael Irvin and Deion Sanders in Dallas.
He mentioned dozens of former teammates in his retirement but said his relationship with the Lord has carried him through many professional ups and downs. “He has been my Rock and Savior and what I counted on to get me here.”
Smith said he has a variety of options, including ownership of a professional football team, coaching or perhaps TV work.
Whatever he does, Smith said he plans to continue his witness to the power of God in enabling him to become one of football’s best-ever running backs.
“Without Christ in my life, I wouldn’t be sharing what I’m standing for today,” Smith said.
(BP)
Share with others: