University of North Texas Athletics

J.T. Smith is proof that if you're pro-caliber, the NFL will find you. Even if it misses you the first time around.

Smith was a defensive back and kick and punt returner at North Texas from 1974 to 1977. As a defensive back, Smith recorded 13 career interceptions, tied for third all-time at North Texas. He also tied a school record with a 100-yard interception return against Louisiana Tech in 1976. As a kick returner, Smith set a school record by averaging 34.5 yards per punt return against SMU in 1976.

But despite those gaudy numbers, he went undrafted. However, his physical skills caught the attention of scouts, and he was signed as a free agent by the Kansas City Chiefs – a second chance that Smith parlayed into a 13-year career. His breakout season came in 1979, when he led the league in punt-return yards and touchdowns. He followed up in 1980 by averaging an NFL-best 14.5-yards per punt return and was named to the Pro Bowl and was first-team All Pro.

Smith's role as a wide receiver also grew, and he eventually developed into a starting wide receiver with the St. Louis Cardinals, where Smith led the NFL in receiving with 91 catches for 1,117 yards in 1987. In 1988, he earned his second Pro Bowl selection. Smith finished his career with 10,287 all-purpose yards.