Fred Smerlas, American football player and radio host

Frederic Charles Smerlas, born on April 8, 1957, is a name synonymous with resilience and dominant defensive play in American football. This formidable nose tackle carved out an impressive 14-year career in the National Football League (NFL), earning five coveted Pro Bowl selections, a testament to his skill and impact on the game. His journey saw him anchor the defensive lines for three distinct franchises: the Buffalo Bills, the San Francisco 49ers, and the New England Patriots, leaving an indelible mark on each.

Early Life and Collegiate Excellence

Hailing from a family of Greek-American descent, Smerlas' athletic prowess was evident from a young age in Waltham, Massachusetts. He graduated from Waltham High School in 1975, where he wasn't just a star on the football field but also a formidable force in wrestling. His exceptional talent led him to achieve the rare distinction of being a two-time, two-sport All-American in both football and wrestling during his high school years. Further cementing his wrestling legacy, he was also a two-time New England heavyweight wrestling champion. This dual-sport background undoubtedly contributed to his strength, agility, and tenacity that would later define his NFL career. After high school, Smerlas continued his football journey as a defensive lineman for Boston College, honing the skills that would soon propel him to the professional ranks.

A Stalwart NFL Career

Transitioning to the professional arena, Frederic Smerlas established himself as one of the league's premier nose tackles. In an era where the nose tackle was often the linchpin of a formidable 3-4 defensive scheme, Smerlas consistently demonstrated the power, technique, and intelligence required to disrupt opposing offenses. His 14-year tenure in the NFL saw him primarily with the Buffalo Bills, where he became a beloved figure and a crucial component of their defensive unit. He later brought his veteran leadership and experience to the San Francisco 49ers and the New England Patriots, extending a career marked by consistency and high-level performance. His five Pro Bowl nods underscore his widespread recognition among peers and coaches as an elite player in his position.

Beyond the Gridiron: Autobiography and Media Presence

Even after hanging up his cleats, Smerlas' connection to the game and his fans remained strong. In 1990, he offered an insightful look into his life and career with his autobiography, By a Nose. This book vividly recounts his eleven seasons with the Buffalo Bills, providing a firsthand perspective on the team's remarkable evolution from perennial "cellar-dwellers" to formidable Super Bowl contenders, a journey that captivated fans across the league. Today, Smerlas continues to share his deep football knowledge and engaging personality through various media platforms. He currently resides in Massachusetts and serves as a part-time co-host during the football season on sports radio WEEI-FM, a prominent voice in New England sports. He is also a regular on NBC Sports Boston's The New England Tailgate Show and contributes his insights to western New York radio station WHAM (AM) in Rochester, maintaining strong ties to the regions where he built his storied career.

Lasting Recognition and Legacy

Frederic Smerlas' significant contributions to football and his exceptional athletic career have not gone unnoticed. In 2018, the Professional Football Researchers Association (PFRA) acknowledged his enduring impact by naming him to the prestigious PFRA Hall of Very Good Class of 2018. This honor recognizes players whose careers were exemplary but perhaps did not achieve the broader notoriety of the Pro Football Hall of Fame. It's a fitting tribute to a player who embodied toughness and dedication throughout his impressive tenure on the field, building a legacy as one of the most respected nose tackles of his generation, complemented by his earlier, equally remarkable achievements in high school wrestling and football.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What position did Fred Smerlas play in the NFL?

Frederic Smerlas played as a nose tackle, a crucial defensive line position, particularly effective in 3-4 defensive schemes.

Which NFL teams did Fred Smerlas play for during his career?

He played for the Buffalo Bills, San Francisco 49ers, and New England Patriots over his 14-year NFL career.

How many Pro Bowls did Fred Smerlas get selected for?

Frederic Smerlas was a five-time NFL Pro Bowl selection, recognizing his consistent excellence and impact on the field.

What is Fred Smerlas' background beyond professional football?

Of Greek-American descent, Smerlas was a standout two-sport athlete at Waltham High School, excelling in both football and wrestling, earning two-time, two-sport All-American honors and two New England heavyweight wrestling championships. He later played defensive lineman for Boston College.

Does Fred Smerlas still have a presence in the sports world today?

Yes, he currently resides in Massachusetts and is a part-time co-host during football season on sports radio WEEI-FM and NBC Sports Boston's The New England Tailgate Show. He also contributes to western New York radio station WHAM (AM).

Has Fred Smerlas received any significant post-career honors?

In 2018, the Professional Football Researchers Association (PFRA) named him to the PFRA Hall of Very Good Class of 2018, acknowledging his exemplary career.