Smith showed great potential at the University of Florida and even received his degree in 1996. Dallas traded up to No. 17 in the first round to draft him. Think he'd last that long again if the teams in the first 16 spots had another shot at him?

Scoring once by run and reception and rushing for 114 yards, Smith played a huge role in helping the Cowboys win the 1992 NFC Championship 30-20 in San Francisco. Two weeks later, Dallas routed the Buffaloo Bills 52-17 in Super Bowl XXVII.

Smith and other Cowboys starters had plenty of time to celebrate on the sidelines of Super Bowl XXVII against the Bills, which finished as a 52-17 laugher.

Smith posed for a photo with his niece Kendra during Super Bowl XXVIII against the Bills in Atlanta. The Cowboys won 30-13.

Smith only managed 49 rushing yards, but did run for two crucial touchdowns in Super Bowl XXX against the Steelers, the third Super Bowl in four years with the Cowboys.

Emmitt Smith is seen holding up the trophy he received for breaking the all-time NFL rushing record in 2002. The 18,355 rushing yards he accumulated in his career is still the most of anyone who has ever played the game.

FILE - In this Oct. 27, 2002, photo, Dallas Cowboys running back Emmitt Smith tips his hat during a post game award ceremony after he broke the NFL all-time career rushing record against the Seattle Seahawks, in Dallas. Smith's desire, drive and durability turned him into the most productive running back in NFL history.

Smith acknowledges the Dallas fans during a ceremony inducting him into the Cowboys ring of honor in 2005.

Smith receives congratulations from former heavyweight boxing champion Muhammad Ali after winning the 'Muhammad Ali Sports Achievemnet Award' at Celebrity Fight Night in 2005.

Smith sheds a tear after being elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame.