245. Jim Ray Smith

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One can argue that Jim Ray Smith missed his window to be known on a higher level as he arrived in Cleveland one year too late and left two years too early, as the Browns would win NFL Championships before and after his arrival, but this was no reflection on the playing ability of Jim Ray Smith.

Smith was drafted in 1954 as an early draftee (Cleveland won the title that year), but due to military commitments did not arrive until 1956.  Smith played both sides, but excelled as an Offensive Lineman, earning his first of what would be five straight Pro Bowls in 1958.  In that half-decade time frame, Smith would also be named a First or Second Team All-Pro (three First Team and two Second Teams).  He retired right after, though he would come out of retirement for two seasons for his home state team, the Dallas Cowboys.

The Bullet Points

  • Country of Origin: West Columbia, Texas, U.S.A.
  • Eligible Since: Thursday, 01 January 1970
  • Position: Defensive End, Guard, Tackle
  • Games Played: 93
  • Notable Statistics: 77 Games Started
    2 Fumble Recoveries
    13 Fumble Recovery Yards
    44 Approximate Value*

    2 Playoff Games
    1 Playoff Game Started

    *Approximate Value was calculated by Pro Football Reference as of the 1960 Season
  • Played For: Cleveland Browns, Dallas Cowboys
  • College: Baylor
  • Drafted: 6th Round, 64th Overall in 1954
  • Major Accolades and Awards:

    First Team All-Pro Selection (3) (1959, 1960 & 1961)
    Second Team All-Pro Selection (2) (1958 & 1962)
    Pro Bowl Selection (5) (1958, 1959, 1960, 1961 & 1962)
  • Other Points of Note: Top Ten Finishes: Approximate Value (2) (1960 & 1961)
  • Notable All Time Rankings: None.
  • Years Nominated for the Hall of Fame: None

Should Jim Ray Smith be in the Hall of Fame?

Definitely put him in! - 71.4%
Maybe, but others deserve it first. - 0%
Probably not, but it wouldn't be the end of the world. - 14.3%
No opinion. - 0%
No way! - 14.3%
Last modified on Tuesday, 20 May 2025 23:41
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