E.J. Smith, son of NFL legend Emmitt Smith, signed with the Kansas City Chiefs after going undrafted—an unexpected turn for a player with a storied lineage.
During his college career at Stanford and Texas A&M, E.J. recorded 969 rushing yards and nine touchdowns across 48 games. His journey wasn’t without hurdles; he primarily served as a rotational back, which likely contributed to his undrafted status.
Smith’s father holds the title of the NFL’s all-time leading rusher. Yet E.J. aims to step out from that shadow and carve out his own identity in the league.
Coaching under DeMarco Murray—who famously broke Emmitt’s single-season rushing record—might provide E.J. with unique insights into excelling at the professional level.
Despite not being selected in the NFL Draft, E.J. expressed gratitude for this opportunity: “Grateful is an understatement. All glory to God for this opportunity,” he stated after signing.
The decision not to join the Dallas Cowboys—where his father spent most of his illustrious career—adds another layer of intrigue to his path.
In his final collegiate season at Texas A&M, he had 54 carries, showcasing that he still has potential left to tap into.
Smith’s college stats reveal a player who has faced challenges but also one who has been prepared for this next step: “The journey hasn’t been easy, but every challenge prepared me for this next step,” he remarked.
As he joins the Kansas City Chiefs roster, E.J.’s performance will be closely watched—not just by fans but by those who remember his father’s remarkable career.
This signing could mark a pivotal moment for both E.J. and the Chiefs as they look to bolster their backfield options moving forward.
For now, anticipation surrounds how E.J. will adapt to the demands of professional football and whether he can honor the Emmitt Smith legacy while creating his own story in the NFL.
