Doug Smith spent his entire career with the Los Angeles Rams after going undrafted out of Bowling Green in 1978. He began as a backup center and later played right guard during his first few seasons, earning his way onto the roster through consistent work. By 1982, he had become the permanent starting center, a role he held for the rest of his time in Los Angeles. Smith was not a high-profile prospect coming out of college, but he proved durable enough to stay healthy and productive for more than a decade. 

Once he settled at center, Smith became the anchor of a strong offensive line. From 1984 through 1989, he earned Pro Bowl selections every year. Those seasons coincided with multiple playoff appearances for the Rams, including runs that featured Eric Dickerson in the backfield and later Jim Everett at quarterback. Smith was a steady technician who handled the calls at the line and kept the pocket clean. He played alongside other longtime linemen and helped the unit stay balanced between the run and the pass.

The Rams reached the postseason in six of the seasons after Smith became the full-time starter. He started the large majority of the games he played and rarely missed time once he locked in the center spot. His quickness off the ball and reliability in pass protection made him a fit for the schemes the Rams ran during that stretch. Smith stayed the starter through the late 1980s even as the roster turned over around him.

He played through the 1991 season before retiring. In L.A., he appeared in 180 games across 14 seasons, an impressive total for an undrafted player. Those numbers reflect both his longevity and the trust the coaching staff placed in him at the most important interior position.

Smith’s six consecutive Pro Bowl selections mark the peak of his career, while the full 14 seasons show the foundation he built from an overlooked start. He gave Los Angeles a reliable center who helped the offensive line compete in the playoffs for years.