The first player selected in the 1985 NFL Draft, Smith quickly established himself as a starter on the Bills defensive line.
The first player selected in the 1985 NFL Draft, Smith quickly established himself as a starter on the Bills defensive line.
Named the AFC Defensive Rookie of the Year by the NFL Players Association, he went on to be named the NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 1990 and 1996 and the AFC Defensive Player of the Year in 1987, 1988, 1990, and 1996.
Smith's speed and strength made him one of the most feared defensive ends in the modern game.
Although Smith’s lightning quickness made him a devastating outside pass rusher, he was also devastatingly strong.
In 1990 Smith recorded 19 quarterback sacks and his dominant play frequently changed the complexion of the game.
The NFL’s all-time career sack leader (200), Smith’s 13 seasons with 10 or more sacks is also an NFL record.
He earned first-team All-Pro honors nine times and was selected to play in 11 Pro Bowls.
Dedicated to staying in top physical condition, Smith was named to both the NFL’s All-Decade Teams of the 1980s and 1990s.
Buffalo Bills Vice President/Communications Scott Berchtold raises a celebratory fist in the air when Bruce Smith's name was announced as a member of the Hall's Class of 2009.
Bruce Smith collects his thoughts at the podium after being named a member of the Hall's Class of 2009.
Smith answers questions from the media following the announcement of the Class of 2009.
Ben Liebenberg/NFL.com
PFHOF/Paul Spinelli
Ben Liebenberg/NFL.com