A look at 2026 BCF HOFamer Jimmy Smith — Jackson State

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  • A look at 2026 BCF HOFamer Jimmy Smith — Jackson State

ATLANTA — The Black College Football Hall of Fame (BCFHOF) will enshrine its six-member class at the 17th annual ceremony at 7 p.m. Saturday at the College Football Hall of Fame presented by the Atlanta Falcons.

The Black College Football Hall of Fame Class of 2026 includes:

  • Jimmy Smith (Jackson State)

  • Eddie Robinson, Jr. (Alabama State)

  • Nick Collins (Bethune-Cookman)

  • Tyrone Poole (Fort Valley State)

  • Coach Rudy Hubbard (Florida A&M)

  • Steve Wyche (Howard)

“What we have with the Class of 2026 is an incredible showcase of excellence, leadership, and impact that continues to come from Historically Black Colleges and Universities,” said Black College Football Hall of Fame Co-Founder and 2011 Inductee Doug Williams. “When the Black College Hall of Fame was established, its purpose was to elevate and recognize the past, present, and future of Black College Football. This class exemplifies that mission.”

Today we take a look at Jimmy Smith

Jacksonville Jaguars All-Time Leading Receiver — Smith became one of the cornerstone offensive players for the Jacksonville Jaguars from 1995 to 2005, leading the team in receiving each season over that span and setting franchise records for receptions and receiving yards.

Pro Bowl and League Honors — A five-time Pro Bowl selection (1997–2001) and two-time Second-Team All-Pro, he also led the NFL in receptions in 1999 and was inducted into the Pride of the Jaguars, the franchise’s ring of honor.

Impressive Career Statistics — Over his 11-year career, Smith totaled 862 receptions for 12,287 yards and 67 touchdowns, ranking among the top receivers in league history at the time of his retirement.

Resilient and Impactful Performer — After early setbacks with injuries and limited opportunities, he emerged as one of the most productive receivers of his era, including a historic 15-reception, 291-yard, 3-touchdown performance against the Baltimore Ravens in 2000.

Collegiate Success at Jackson State — Before his NFL career, Smith was a standout wide receiver at Jackson State University, where he developed into a top prospect and earned recognition that led to his high draft selection.

He was inducted into the Pride of the Jaguars, the franchise’s ring of honor, in 2016. He was inducted into the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame in 2024.

Smith is from Jackson and went to Callaway High School.

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