Bruce Smith had many impressive statistics throughout his National Football League career, but on Thursday night, the most important number was the one he wore for 16 years with the Buffalo Bills-78.
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“I must express my appreciation to my unbelievable coach, teammates, and the incredible chemistry and synergy that we shared with this formula”, Smith said.
“Less than one percent are inducted into the Hall of Fame”, Smith said. He knows he’s earned it.
Smith helped lead the Bills to four consecutive AFC championships from 1990-1993 and was a two-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 1990 and 1996.
No. 78’s impact was immediately felt when he stepped onto the field as a rookie and by the time his 19 year career ended in 2003, he stood alone the all-time sacks list with 200.
Smith said he wanted a night game to celebrate his jersey retirement, and he wanted it early in the season. In 19 National Football League seasons, Smith was selected to the Pro Bowl 11-times and named First Team All-Pro on eight occasions.
With the 0-1 Bills trailing the New York Jets 20-10 at the half, Smith arrived on the field to raucous cheers and the familiar, elongated shouts of his last name. The team has missed the playoffs 16 straight years, and Smith admits it’s not easy watching the once proud franchise fall on such tough times.
Smith was joined at midfield during a halftime ceremony by his family as his name and number were unveiled on the wall above the east end zone.
Watch Bruce Smith’s press conference in the video player above.
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Smith is still one of the city’s biggest supporters and has a bond with Buffalo that still gets him emotional. I love Buffalo; it has a special place in my heart. “It was such a privilege to play in front of so many Bills fans who motivated me each and every week with their passion and their enthusiasm”.
