Legacy isn’t just about the trophies we win or the accolades we collect. It’s about the lives we touch, the values we pass on, and the impact we leave behind. My family’s story is a testament to this truth—a rich narrative of resilience, excellence, and unwavering purpose. From breaking barriers in professional sports to shaping lives off the field, my uncles, cousin, and namesake have shown me what it means to build something bigger than yourself.
A Family of Trailblazers
Sherman Smith: A Leader Who Broke Barriers
Sherman Smith, my uncle, isn’t just a football legend; he’s a trailblazer. As the first offensive player drafted by the Seattle Seahawks, he shattered expectations in a league where Black athletes were still fighting for respect and opportunity.
But Sherman’s legacy didn’t stop on the field. He transitioned into coaching, mentoring countless players, and becoming a cornerstone of the Seahawks’ Super Bowl-winning staff. Sherman’s career is a masterclass in leadership, resilience, and the power of investing in others.
Darrell K. Smith: Redefining Excellence in the CFL
My uncle Darrell K. Smith was a record-breaking star in the Canadian Football League (CFL). Playing for the Toronto Argonauts, he redefined what it meant to be unstoppable. Before his CFL success, Darrell had a brief stint with the Dallas Cowboys, showcasing his relentless drive to seize every opportunity—even in a league where talent like his was often overlooked.
Darrell’s journey speaks to the power of perseverance and finding your path, even when the odds aren’t in your favor.
Deland McCullough: Mentorship and Transformation
Deland McCullough, my cousin, exemplifies the transformative power of mentorship. Currently the associate head coach and running backs coach at Notre Dame, Deland is shaping the future of football and the lives of countless young men.
Deland’s story took an extraordinary turn when he discovered that Sherman Smith—his longtime mentor—was actually his biological father. Their connection, rooted first in shared values and later revealed as familial, is a testament to the profound power of relationships.
Michael Cobb: The Man Behind My Name
Michael Cobb, my father’s cousin, is the man I was named after. A first-round NFL draft pick, Michael made his mark with the Chicago Bears and continued his career in the USFL with the Michigan Panthers.
Michael’s career reminds me that success is about more than talent—it’s about resilience, adaptability, and making the most of every opportunity. Being named after him is more than a connection; it’s a reminder of the responsibility I carry to honor his legacy.
Lessons in Legacy and Impact
Growing up surrounded by these stories, I learned that greatness isn’t measured by accolades—it’s measured by the lives you influence.
- Sherman’s mentorship taught me the importance of guiding others with integrity and purpose.
- Darrell’s resilience showed me that the path to success isn’t always direct, but persistence makes all the difference.
- Deland’s leadership inspires me to use my platform to uplift and empower others.
- Michael’s adaptability reminds me to approach challenges with grit and determination.
Their journeys reflect struggles that resonate far beyond the field—overcoming systemic inequities, navigating spaces that undervalue talent, and building opportunities for others to thrive.
From the Field to the Frontlines
Sports have always mirrored society’s struggles and triumphs.
- Sherman’s career unfolded during an era when Black athletes were breaking barriers in professional leagues, a fight that continues today in new forms.
- Darrell’s shift to the CFL highlights how systems often fail to fully value extraordinary talent, forcing individuals to find success outside the mainstream.
- Deland’s mentorship underscores the importance of investing in the next generation, ensuring that those who follow have the tools to excel.
These lessons fuel my work today. Whether I’m advocating for housing reform or voter engagement, I carry forward my family’s example. They taught me that real victories come not from individual success but from dismantling systems that hold others back.
A Name and a Responsibility
Being named after Michael Cobb is more than a family connection—it’s a charge. It reminds me to approach life with the same determination, adaptability, and integrity that he embodied.
Legacy isn’t about personal achievements—it’s about the lives you influence and the change you inspire. My family’s story is a constant reminder that true impact is measured not in what we take with us, but in what we leave behind for others.
What Will Your Legacy Be?
What impact will you leave behind? How will you use your talents, your voice, and your story to create meaningful change? Legacy isn’t something reserved for history books—it’s something we build every day.
Let’s carry the torch together and create a legacy worth remembering.
Watch the Journey
For an inspiring glimpse into the power of legacy and connection, watch this incredible video. It tells the story of Sherman Smith and Deland McCullough and captures the essence of resilience, mentorship, and the transformative power of relationships.
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