Former NFL player Chris Smith has died at the age of 31, according to multiple sources (TODAY, NBC News, The Washington Post, USA Today, New York Post, CNN). Smith, who spent eight seasons in the NFL as a defensive lineman with multiple teams, including the Cleveland Browns and the Jacksonville Jaguars, passed away on Tuesday, though the cause of his death has not been confirmed (CNN, USA Today).
Many in the NFL community have been mourning the loss of Smith, who was also known for his high school football career at West Rowan High School in North Carolina (WCNC, Sports Illustrated, New York Post). Smith was a fifth-round draft pick in 2014 and played a total of 75 games in the NFL, recording 8.5 sacks and 67 tackles (The Washington Post).
Smith’s passing has come as a shock to many, especially as he had recently been playing for the Seattle Sea Dragons in the XFL (The US Sun, Marca). His death has prompted an outpouring of condolences and tributes from fans and fellow players alike on social media.
Smith’s death is a tragic loss for the football community, and his legacy will be remembered by many.
