Jaguars defensive end Dawuane Smoot and his wife, Aumari, are the proud — and often sleep-deprived — parents of Ahmir and Ahlani. Most parents of young children can relate. But it’s their story that is remarkable, even a year after an early morning surprise made the Smoot clan a family of four in the most unexpected of ways.
How 13-month-old Ahlani made her way into the world makes this family story an unforgettable one. In the early morning hours of Oct. 19, 2021, Aumari went into labor in the family’s home. It was a surprise that it happened when it did. She’d just met with her doctor and midwife, who said Aumari was still likely a week or so away from having her daughter.
The Smoot’s are strong believers in natural childbirth and Aumari elected to have both of her children that way. The couple used a midwife when Ahmir was born, and Dawuane helped deliver his son in a birthing tub at the family’s home. The Jaguars were coming off a 23-20 win over Miami in London, a victory that ended a 20-game losing streak. The team was heading into a bye week and the Smoots were grateful for a little bit of a break. They went to sleep that night like any other.
As the couple walked toward the door, Aumari knew this was going to be much different than when she had her son. In their living room, Aumari stopped walking and leaned back, unable to go on any further. Dawuane helped guide her to the ground. “I just didn’t know exactly what to do. She was the brave one in it all and she kept me calm,” Dawuane said. “Even though she was going through all that pain, she was able to just stay calm and tell me, ‘Hey, just call 911, calm down, go grab some blankets.’ I just listened to her. To get it done I was able to step up in ways to help her.”
Dawuane is enjoying one of his best seasons as a pass rusher. Despite playing far less than players like Josh Allen and Travon Walker, Smoot’s five sacks lead the Jaguars. With one more, he’ll tie his career high with No. 6. Aumari may be sleeping less than she was with just Ahmir, but her smile is radiant when talk about the three loves of her life.