Don Smerek, a former Dallas Cowboys defensive lineman from the 1980s, passed away at the age of 66 due to cancer.
Smerek joined the Cowboys as an undrafted free agent in 1981 and played for seven seasons, participating in 69 games and accumulating 14.5 career sacks.
Former Cowboys DL Don Smerek dies at 66. https://t.co/tqqn4lqZPt
— ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) March 20, 2024
His NFL career was marked by several ups and downs, including a rookie season marred by broken ribs and a knee injury that landed him on injured reserve in 1981. He also survived being shot in the chest just four weeks after his knee injury.
Despite these setbacks, he made a remarkable recovery and returned to the field after only 11 months. Smerek primarily played as a pass-rushing specialist, filling in for various injured teammates throughout his career.
🎂 December 20th: Happy 65th Birthday to former Cowboys defensive lineman #60 Don Smerek (1981-87) who was born on this day in 1957. He was signed as a undrafted free agent. Smerek was a productive backup and a pass rushing specialist. #80sCowboys pic.twitter.com/7v2bsBW9aI
— Dallas Cowboys Old School (@CowboysOld) December 20, 2022
Standing at 6 feet 7 inches, Smerek played as a pass-rushing specialist at both defensive end and tackle positions.
He filled in for injured players such as John Dutton, Harvey Martin, and Randy White. White, his teammate, praised Smerek’s reliability and commitment.
Smerek’s career consisted of 69 games with the Cowboys, recording 14.5 sacks and participating in five postseason contests.
He also remained a loyal teammate, crossing picket lines during the NFLPA strike of 1987. Smerek retired in 1988 and maintained a close friendship with Hall of Famer Randy White sharing fishing adventures and memories.
He ended his NFL career with 69 regular-season games and 14.5 sacks, playing exclusively for the Cowboys.
Smerek is survived by his wife, Tandi, three brothers, Jeff, Ron, and Dennis, his sister Debbie, and several nieces and nephews.
The family will hold a private memorial service in late March in Henderson, Nevada.
