Jimmy Smith does deserve respect for a terrific career, but anytime you have a borderline HOF candidate, the off field issues loom large. Michael Irvin had the SB play to overcome his problems, and LT was one of the best defensive players ever, so they’re different than Smith.

As Jags fans know, Smith’s lengthy off field problems date back to 2001, and the way he retired was damaging to his legacy. As you remember, Smith was coming off a strong season for a 36 year old WR, when he abruptly quit just before a scheduled drug test. The fact he was later jailed for drugs was a indicator Smith had something to hide, it’s not the way a player wants to go out. In recent times, Smith has reportedly been clean, and turned his life around. Down the road, perhaps with the Veterans Committee, Smith will eventually get in.