#MizzouMade Jacquies Smith’s NFL Story

Made’ is a phrase that has come to define a lifestyle for everyone who has been through Head Coach Gary Pinkel‘s program at Mizzou. There are plenty of examples of young men who have come to epitomize this culture, including Tampa Bay Buccaneers Defensive Lineman Jacquies Smith.

After signing as an undrafted free agent with the Miami Dolphins following his senior season at Mizzou, Smith bounced around to three NFL practice teams and even signed with the Canadian Football League in 2012. With the principles instilled in him through Mizzou Football, he continued to grind and work hard. That hard work earned him a spot with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in September of 2014 after being claimed off waivers. Smith excelled in 2014, earning eight starts and playing in 15 games in which he tallied 6.5 sacks and forced a fumble.

Smith’s success has not halted in 2015, as he currently ranks 13th in the NFL in sacks with five on the season. He has also recorded three forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries for 12 yards in 2015.