Skip to main content
Come Fan with UsSunday, June 21, 2026

Bills legend Bruce Smith on his jersey retirement

Bruce Smith was a two-time AP NFL Defensive Player of the Year, the only player to hit 200 sacks, and the record holder for most double-digit sack seasons. So, in a surprise to no one, the Bills will never issue out his No. 78 ever again.

Smith’s jersey will only be the second one to be retired by the Bills franchise. (Jim Kelly is the other one). He’s also the only former NFL player having his jersey retired this season, and one of only 139 players ever to have experienced the honor.

In an exclusive sit-down with SB Nation, Bruce Smith reflected on what this honor means to him, his days with the Bills, and their passionate fan base.

The ceremony will be held during halftime of Thursday night’s game against the Jets. Kickoff is at 7:25 p.m. ET, and you can watch the game on CBS or online via Sunday Ticket and Twitter.

See More:

More in NFL

NFL
WNFC championship game airing Sunday, June 21st from Ford Center in FriscoWNFC championship game airing Sunday, June 21st from Ford Center in Frisco
NFL

The Women’s National Football Conference Championship will air on ESPN2 this weekend.

By RJ Ochoa
From SBNationExternal Link
Which fictional quarterback would you have lead your team?Which fictional quarterback would you have lead your team?
From SBNationExternal Link
By James Dator
NFL
Best bets for 2026 NFL Offensive Rookie of the YearBest bets for 2026 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year
NFL

There are some good longer-shot options on offensive side of ball for the NFL’s Rookie of the Year.

By Bill Williamson
NFL
Brendan Sorsby is a rare chance to get a top QB cheap, and these teams should go inBrendan Sorsby is a rare chance to get a top QB cheap, and these teams should go in
NFL

This is a no-brainer for some NFL teams.

By James Dator
NFL
Fernando Mendoza has great respect for the Raiders that came before himFernando Mendoza has great respect for the Raiders that came before him
NFL

Fernando Mendoza has great respect for the Raiders that came before him

By RJ Ochoa
NFL
Brendan Sorsby intends to enter NFL Supplemental Draft, per reportsBrendan Sorsby intends to enter NFL Supplemental Draft, per reports
NFL

Texas Tech quarterback Brendan Sorsby is entering the NFL Supplemental Draft, per reports

By Mark Schofield