In football, few stories resonate with the tenacity and dedication exhibited by those who climb from obscurity to leave an indelible mark on the game.
Don Smerek, a former defensive lineman for the Dallas Cowboys, whose journey from an undrafted college player to a stalwart of the NFL trenches, embodies such a narrative.
Smerek, who passed away on March 16, 2024, at 66, after a courageous battle with cancer, is remembered not just for his contributions on the field but for the vibrant life he led off it.
Born in Waterford, Michigan, Smerek moved to Henderson, Nevada, with his family when he was young. At Basic High School, he earned all-state lineman honors and later played for the University of Nevada, Reno, in the late 1970s. Under coach Chris Ault, he received All-Big Sky honors in his senior year.
Despite not hearing his name called during the draft, his determination and love for the game never waned. In 1981, Smerek’s persistence paid off when he signed with the Dallas Cowboys, a team with which he would spend the entirety of his seven-season NFL career.
Throughout his tenure with the Cowboys, Smerek appeared in 69 games, leaving his mark as a dependable force on the defensive line. With a career total of 14.5 sacks, his ability to disrupt the opposing offense was evident. But beyond the statistics and game highlights, Smerek’s true legacy lies in the relationships he forged and the lives he touched.
Randy White, inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame and ex-star of the Cowboys, fondly recalls Smerek as a fellow player and a cherished friend. White reminisced, “He was an excellent teammate, an outstanding individual. As a player, he was utterly reliable, always there when you needed him, especially for rushing the passer on third downs. His total commitment set Don apart on the field; he gave it his all every single time.”
Smerek’s sister, Debbie Nye, spoke of his “magnetic personality” and how it drew people to him, creating lifelong friendships that lasted well beyond his football career. His love for life and the outdoors often saw him fishing with friends, including White, in the peaceful serenity away from the roar of stadiums.
After retiring from the NFL, Smerek chose to make Texas his home, where he lived a life filled with joy, friendship, and community.
Don Smerek leaves behind his wife Tandi, three brothers, a sister, and numerous nieces and nephews. Smerek’s influence will continue to motivate those close to him and those who will learn of his endeavors in future generations.