Smith, Royce - Football, 1981
Smith was a consensus All-American football player at the University of Georgia. A prep standout at Groves High School, he started as the Bulldog’s offensive right guard for three years (1969-71). After his senior year, he was elected permanent captain of the squad, which compiled an 11-1 record – including a victory over North Carolina in the Gator Bowl.
Smith was a first team All-American on all the prominent teams: AP, UPI, Football Writers of America, Football Coaches Association of America, NEA, Sporting News, Football News, and Walter Camp. He was awarded the coveted Jacobs Trophy as the SEC’s best blocker, an honor bestowed by the conference coaches.
Smith was drafted by the New Orleans Saints. He played with the team several years before closing out his professional career with the Atlanta Falcons.