Former Trojan Great Steve Smith Hangs it up

Steve Smith retired from the NFL yesterday after a quick six seasons in the league.

Former USC All-American WR Steve Smith has decided to retire after six seasons in the NFL, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.

Smith was a second round pick of the New York Giants in 2007, and formed an instant connection with QB Eli Manning. He helped the Giants win Super Bowl XLII (5 catches for 50 yards) as a rookie (pictured), and then went on to make the Pro Bowl after breaking the franchise record for receptions in a season (107).

(Nice write-up here on Smith's retirement in the FanPosts.)

Smith played with a workman like attitude.

He wasn't as "flashy" as Dwayne Jarrett, but man was he effective!

I wrote this about Smith in 2006...

Steve Smith single handedly gave the offense what it needed tonight and because of him we got out of Pullman with a win. A win that we really didn't deserve. Smith had 11 catches for 186 yards and 2 TD's. His great play made up for some bad penalties that could have taken us out of the game.

For that effort I would call him a Stud.

Smith was a big target for Matt Leinart in USC's 55-19 win over Oklahoma with 7 catches for 113 yards...I remember it like it was yesterday.

I am sorry to see him go, he should have had a few more years left in him.

Good Luck Steve!

FIGHT ON!