Steve Smith Sr.'s Success and Achievements in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: February 23, 2025

A closer look at the biggest achievements of Steve Smith Sr.. Awards, milestones, and records that define success.

Steve Smith Sr. is a former NFL wide receiver and current sports broadcaster. He played 16 seasons, primarily for the Carolina Panthers, after being drafted in the third round in 2001. He also played for the Baltimore Ravens. Before his NFL career, Smith played college football at the University of Utah. Following his retirement from professional football, he transitioned to sports media, becoming an analyst and host for the NFL Network.

Sections (3)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

1990: Jerry Rice won the Triple Crown of receiving

In 1990, Jerry Rice won the Triple Crown of receiving.

1992: Sterling Sharpe won the Triple Crown of receiving

In 1992, Sterling Sharpe won the Triple Crown of receiving.

January 13, 2001: Named Offensive MVP of the East-West Shrine Game

On January 13, 2001, Steve Smith was named the offensive MVP of the East–West Shrine Game.

2003: Led Panthers to NFC Title

During the 2003 season, Steve Smith played a critical role for the Panthers offense and helped lead them to their first NFC title in franchise history.

2005: Led the NFL in Catches, Receiving Yards, and Touchdowns

In 2005, Steve Smith led the NFL in catches, receiving yards, and touchdowns, solidifying his status as one of the league's most productive wide receivers.

2005: Shared the 2005 NFL Comeback Player of the Year Award

In 2005, Steve Smith shared the 2005 NFL Comeback Player of the Year Award with New England Patriots' linebacker Tedy Bruschi.

2005: Earned the "Triple Crown" of Receiving

In the 2005 NFL season, Steve Smith earned the "Triple Crown" of receiving, leading the NFL in receptions, receiving yards, and receiving touchdowns.

2006: Played Despite Injuries and Double Coverage

In 2006, Steve Smith battled through a hamstring injury and an ingrown toenail to finish the year with 83 catches for 1,186 yards and 8 touchdowns.

2006: Invited to the 2006 Pro Bowl

In 2006, Steve Smith, along with teammates Jake Delhomme, Julius Peppers, and Mike Wahle were invited to the 2006 Pro Bowl after the season.

2007: Invited to the 2007 Pro Bowl and Signed Contract Extension

In 2007, Steve Smith was invited to the Pro Bowl for the second year in a row and signed a contract extension with the Panthers.

2009: Voted to play in the 2009 Pro Bowl

Despite his 2-game suspension, in 2009, Steve Smith was voted to play in the 2009 Pro Bowl after he managed to catch 78 passes for 1,421 receiving yards and 6 touchdowns.