Smith, 33, opted to test the open market in free agency, which led to an agreement with the New York Jets to protect Aaron Rodgers, ending his stellar 13-year career with the Cowboys and becoming the first player in history to do so. I came in 8th place. -time Made a tackle in the Pro Bowl while wearing another team's uniform.
Once his deal with the Jets became official, the future Hall of Famer returned to pay tribute to the Jets who gave him the chance to be the No. 9 overall pick in 2011.
“Cowboy Nation,”
“Honestly, I don't even know where to start…
“Thirteen years is certainly a long time to summarize in one short letter to the thousands of people who made my time in Dallas so memorable. It's been a long and wild year filled with many ups and downs. It's been a tough journey, but Cowboy Nation, you've all been there through it all.
“I was fortunate enough to be given the opportunity to play for the Dallas Cowboys in 2011 as a young boy coming out of USC. Since the day I was selected, I have been looking forward to contributing to this organization, my teammates, and, of course, the fans. “It was my only priority.” I loved being a cowboy and building relationships over the years with people who would always be a part of my life.
“The O-line room in Dallas will forever hold a special place in my heart. Traditions were made within its four walls and teammates became brothers. I've learned so much from all of you. You have helped me in so many ways, not only as a player, but in growing from a 20-year-old boy to who I am today. He gave it to me.
“To the Jones family, thank you for the amazing opportunity to play for the Cowboys and a life-changing experience that my family and I will be forever grateful for. I will never forget the feeling I had when stepping out of AT&T Stadium and the stadium tunnel. I'll never forget it.'' The roar of the crowd after the big play.
*Cowboy Nation – Thank you as always. While I am excited about the next chapter of my football career, a part of my heart will forever remain in Texas. *
“Until we meet again…”
Smith's departure creates a huge void in Dak Prescott's blind spot that must be addressed quickly before the Cowboys can claim to be a championship contender in 2024. Next season will be a chance for Smith, a six-time All-Pro with a bounce-back year in 2023, to get a fresh start for the first time since leaving the University of Southern California for the NFL Draft.
But it's clear it wasn't an easy decision for Smith, who has very clearly hinted at the possibility of a reunion at some point in the future, even if it was just for one day. .
