Dwight Smith

Team Number:	24
Birth Date:	08/13/1978
Height:	5'10''
Weight:	201lbs.
Position:	Safety

More Info
UPDATE: Dwight Smith now plays with the Detroit Lions.

Dwight Smith was born on August 13, 1978 and calls his hometown Detroit, Michigan. He played four years of college ball at Akron before being drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the third round of the 2001 NFL Draft. Signed with the Minnesota Vikings as a free agent before the 2006 season.

NFL

Dwight Smith has been a starter in every game he has played from 2003-05, and was part of a number one ranked defense in Tampa Bay in the 2002 season. Made two interceptions and returned them for touchdowns in Super Bowl XXXVII. Made his first two career interceptions in the same game at Atlanta on October 6, 2002. Career highs include five interceptions in 2003 and 104 tackles in 2004. In first season with the Vikings (2006), Smith ranked second on the team with 98 tackles and tied for a team high four interceptions while leading the team with 81 yards on interceptions returns. Helped the Vikings rank eighth in the NFL in total defense, the first top ten ranking the team’s defense has had since 1994.

College

Dwight Smith was tagged a Mid-America Conference Defensive Player of the Year as a senior in 2000 after tying for the NCAA lead with 10 interceptions. Also set a school record with 208 yards on returns with two touchdowns in the same year. Amassed 163 career tackles, 15 interceptions, six forced fumbles and four fumble recoveries. Was a finalist for the 2000 Jim Thorpe Award, which is presented to the top collegiate defensive back.

Personal

Dwight Smith attended Central High School in Detroit. Awarded All-State and All-City honors in high school. Was a business and organizational communications major at Akron. Son’s name is Dwight, Jr.