Don Smerek, a former Dallas Cowboy, passed away at the age of 66.
The defensive lineman’s cancer battle was lost.
After a fight with cancer, Don Smerek, a former defensive standout for the Dallas Cowboys, passed away last week. His age was sixty-six.
Smerek played collegiate football at Nevada, where he started his career. He was not drafted, but in 1981 he signed with the Cowboys.
In 69 games during his seven-year tenure with the team, Smerek demonstrated his abilities as a defensive lineman.
What were his teammates’ opinions of him?
Smerek made a significant impact on the field with 14.5 sacks during his time in Dallas.
Pro Football Hall of Famer and former Cowboys star Randy White said of the deceased player, “He was a fantastic teammate, a great person.”
As a football player, he was just reliable and consistent. Don was an absolute perfectionist when it came to football; he would rush the passer on third downs.”
White cherished the memories of their mutual love of fishing, which solidified their connection off of the football field.
After leaving the NFL, Smerek—who was originally from Nevada—moved to Texas. Debbie Nye reminisced on her brother’s legacy, praising his “magnetic personality” for creating relationships with teammates that lasted throughout high school, college, and professional football.
“His buddies are pals for life; they go back to high school, college, and the NFL,” said Ye.
Later this month, a private memorial event honoring the life of Smerek will take place in Henderson, Nevada.
Smerek left behind priceless memories and a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. He is survived by his wife, Tandi, three brothers, a sister, and several nieces and nephews.
The Dallas Cowboys have not yet announced how they will commemorate Smerek’s loss individually, but when the team plays its first home game in 2024, there may be a group homage to all Cowboys who have passed away over the offseason.
