Mark Smith (August 28, 1974 – February 10, 2026) was an American professional football player who played defensive tackle in the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Auburn Tigers.
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College career
Smith began his college career playing at Navarro College in Corsicana, Texas, for a season. He then transferred to Hinds Community College in Raymond, Mississippi for his sophomore season, where earned NJCAA All-America honors while leading Hinds to the 1994 Mississippi state championship. He wrapped up his college career with two seasons at Auburn University.
Professional career
Smith was selected by the Arizona Cardinals in the seventh round of the 1997 NFL draft. He earned All-Rookie honors that season and spent four years on the Cardinals. In his second season with Arizona, he finished second on the team with nine sacks as the Cardinals made it to the second round of the playoffs.
He later played parts of two seasons for the Cleveland Browns, before retiring after being released during the 2002 season.
Death
Smith died on February 10, 2026 at the age of 51.
Honors
Smith was inducted into the Vicksburg-Warren School District Athletics Hall of Fame and the Hinds Hall of Fame in 2024.