Smith Retires In a stunning announcement, running back Robert Smith retires following the 2000 season. Smith, 28-years-old at the time, was coming off his best season in the NFL, when he rushed for an NFC-high 1,521 yards and played a full 16-game season for the first time ever. "Robert's decision to retire, as everyone knows, comes off his best season ever as a running back for the Minnesota Vikings," Green said. "He leaves the game on top and looks forward to his next challenge." Smith led the Vikings in rushing for six consecutive seasons.

Robert Smith makes a cut for the open hole against the Saints in the playoffs.