Knoxville Catholic alum Harrison Smith joins NFL Hall of Famers on elite shortlist

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) — Harrison Smith has long been considered one of football's most impactful defensive players, but the Knoxville Catholic alum has now done something only three other NFL players have accomplished.

The six-time Pro Bowl defensive back has recorded two interceptions so far in 2024, bringing his total career interceptions to 36. Harrison is now one of four players in NFL history with 20+ sacks, 35+ interceptions, and 1,000+ tackles in their career.

Vote for the WATE Friday Frenzy High School Player of the Year!

Only Ronde Barber, Brian Dawkins, and Charles Woodson had previously reached the milestone. All three are now enshrined in the NFL Hall of Fame.

Smith graduated from Knoxville Catholic High School in 2007 where he was a standout athlete in football, basketball, and track. He was selected with the 29th overall pick in the 2012 NFL Draft by the Minnesota Vikings after a stellar collegiate career at Notre Dame. Smith is now in his 13th season with the team, making him their longest-tenured player.

See more top stories on WATE.com

He has returned to Knoxville every summer for an annual football camp at his alma mater, often joined by other pro players from the area.