ATHOL SPRINGS, N.Y. — The photos on the walls of Jerry Smith's office serve as a giant yearbook for his 37 years coaching St. Francis football.

One of his former players, Brian Daboll, is the Bills' new offensive coordinator in a career that's come full circle. 

"Brian is a Western New York guy, and he's never forgot his roots," Smith said.

Daboll was raised by his grandparents in West Seneca and played for Smith at St. Francis. He returns to Buffalo with a championship resume. Just last week, he won college football's national title in his first season as the offensive coordinator with Alabama. Prior to that, he earned five Super Bowl rings with the New England Patriots.

"I know Brian just didn't make this decision lightly either," Smith said. "It was a good fit for him. I think he sees what [the Bills] have here and what the potential could be."

St. Francis has gained a reputation across the country for producing bright football minds. Many of them have gone on to play or coach in college and the pros. Including Daboll, five former Red Raiders are currently working in prominent roles with NFL teams—all of them coached by Smith.

Frannies grad David Caldwell is the general manager of the Jacksonville Jaguars, and Chris Polian, the son of former Bills general manager Bill Polian works in the front office. Chris is also the former vice president and general manager of the Indiapolis Colts. Caldwell and Polian have helped build a Jags team that is playing for a trip to the Super Bowl against the Patriots in the AFC Championship game. Tom Telesco is the general manager of the Los Angeles Chargers and Kyle Smith is Washington's director of college personnel. 

That list doesn't include several former players now coaching in high schools and colleges around the country.

"I just feel fortunate to be in the right place at the right time," Smith laughed. "To coach these guys and to maintain the relationships is what I find special. I know how busy they are, but they always seem to find time for old coach."

But what's the secret to that success leading a handful from the Hamburg high school to the big time?

"I think it really goes to the type of family that we have here," Smith said.

And while he probably won't be running the show for another 37 years, he hopes to see a few more of his guys make it to the top.

"It's been a good ride so far,” said Smith. “Hopefully I'm around for a little bit longer, you know?"