Kirby Smart is best known as a college football head coach, but his time as a professional player is relevant to understanding his football journey. Did Kirby Smart play in the NFL? Yes, he played cornerback for the St. Louis Rams and Philadelphia Eagles in the mid-1990s. This verified profile explains his NFL tenure, teams, position, statistics, and the injury that shifted him to coaching, providing a clear, fact-first reference for his playing career.
Playing Career Overview
Kirby Smart entered the NFL after a standout college career at the University of Georgia. He was drafted in the sixth round of the 1995 NFL Draft. He spent parts of three seasons in the league, primarily as a backup cornerback and on special teams, before a neck injury prompted his transition away from playing.
NFL Teams and Seasons
| Season | Team | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1995 | St. Louis Rams | Cornerback, special teams | Rookie season; limited snaps |
| 1996 | Philadelphia Eagles | Cornerback, special teams | Spent year on practice squad; active for few games |
| 1997 | Philadelphia Eagles | Cornerback, special teams | Injured; placed on IR; retired from playing |
Position and Performance
Smart played cornerback, a position demanding speed, coverage technique, and tackling consistency. In three NFL seasons he appeared in 11 games, recorded a handful of solo tackles and passes defensed, and never started. His playing career was curtailed by a neck injury, leading him to pursue coaching instead.
Transition to Coaching
After his playing career ended, Kirby Smart moved into coaching at the collegiate level. He served as a graduate assistant at Georgia, coached at Florida, South Carolina, and Alabama, and eventually became the head coach at Georgia, where he established a highly successful program. His on-field experience as a cornerback informs his emphasis on defensive fundamentals and player development.
Legacy Comparison
While Kirby Smart never had a lengthy or statistically prominent NFL tenure, his playing background contributes to his credibility as a defensive-minded coach. Understanding his time on the field provides context for his attention to detail, practice standards, and player accountability in college football.
- Position: Cornerback
- NFL Teams: St. Louis Rams, Philadelphia Eagles
- NFL Seasons: 1995–1997
- Games Played: 11
- Reason for Leaving: Neck injury leading to retirement and coaching transition