Ex general manager A.J. Smith has reached the end of the road in his NFL career. Widely known for being the general manager for the San Diego Chargers, Smith’s decision to retire came after the Redskins decided to not renew his contract with the team as a consultant. Smith has been apart of the NFL business for 40 years.
“We had a family discussion and an actual voting process. It was unanimous!” Smith wrote in an e-mail to U-T San Diego. ” … We have experienced incredible highs and lows in our 38-year ride. At the age of 66, it’s time for me to enjoy my family and friends more than ever before. I will now get going on my long-awaited bucket list.”
“It has been an honor and a privilege to be a part of the National Football League,” he added. “I will always cherish my time in the NFL and the friendships that developed over those many years. Looking forward to spending lots of time in Del Mar, Rhode Island, and parts unknown.”
Smith leaves the NFL with a legacy as the winningest GM in Chargers history. Smith earned 98 wins in 10 seasons. Smith was famous for the 2004 draft day trade that sent Eli Manning to the Giants and sent Philip Rivers’ to the Chargers. He was also famous for firing Marty Schottenheimer after a 14-2 season and 1 loss playoff exit. His last season with the Chargers was 2012. However Smith’s Chargers teams were notoriously known are for not being able to win when it counted the most, the playoffs.
Source: NFL
