Story perspectives

Former NFL Player Discovers Coach is Biological Father

10/29/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Deland McCullough, a former NFL player, revealed on the Today Show that Sherman Smith, a longtime coach, is his biological father.
McCullough discovered the connection in 2017 while searching for his birth parents.
Sherman Smith coached McCullough at Miami University, unaware of his son's existence until their reunion.
Their story is documented in McCullough's book, Runs In the Family: An Incredible True Story of Football, Fatherhood, and Belonging.

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Story summary

Deland McCullough, a former NFL player, revealed on the Today Show that Sherman Smith, a longtime coach, is his biological father.
McCullough discovered the connection in 2017 while searching for his birth parents.
Sherman Smith coached McCullough at Miami University, unaware of his son's existence until their reunion.
Their story is documented in McCullough's book, Runs In the Family: An Incredible True Story of Football, Fatherhood, and Belonging.