Former NFL star Chris Smith has passed away at the age of 31. The player was a defensive lineman who played for a number of teams in his career. The news of Smith’s demise was confirmed by his agent.
The cause and circumstances around the death are not known yet. The soccer player played in the NFL for eight seasons, for teams including the Cleveland Browns, Jacksonville Jaguars, the Cincinnati Bengals, and the Las Vegas Raiders. Read on to know more about his life and career.
Former NFL Star Chris Smith Dies at 31
Smith’s agent, Drew Rosenhaus, announced the sad news with a tweet on April 18th. He shared a picture of the player and wrote, “Rest in Peace Chris. Condolences to all his family, friends, and loved ones. We will miss you.” However, the cause of death has not been revealed as of now.
Cleveland Browns also shared the development by tweeting, “We are deeply saddened by the passing of former Browns DE Chris Smith. Chris was one of the kindest people, teammates, and friends we’ve had in our organization. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time.”
Smith Played in Eight NFL Seasons
Chris Smith played soccer at the college level. In 2014, he was drafted into the NFL by the Jacksonville Jaguars. After playing for the team for three years, he moved to the Cincinnati Bengals in 2017. A year later, he signed a three-year contract with the Browns.
Smith then also went on to play for Carolina Panthers, Las Vegas Raiders, Baltimore Ravens, and Houston Texans. He played a total of 72 games in his eight-year-long NFL career and had 80 tackles and 11 sacks. Just last month, he signed a deal with the Seattle Sea Dragons for the 2023 XFL season and appeared in four games.
The player also faced a horrible personal tragedy in 2019, when his girlfriend, Petara Cordero, died after being hit by a car. She had just exited the vehicle Smith was driving when the accident took place. The couple had welcomed a baby girl shortly before the tragedy.
Social Media Flooded with Tributes
A number of Smith’s friends and fans have expressed their grief over the player’s passing. Tony Khan, President of All Elite Wrestling, tweeted, “Rest In Peace, Chris Smith. Chris came to the Jaguars in 2014 and spent 3 years here. He was a great teammate and friend.”
“He suffered a tragic loss in 2019 when Petara, his girlfriend + mother of his child passed away in a vehicular accident. I hope they’re reunited in Heaven,” he added. Smith’s former teammate David Njoku tweeted, “Rest in paradise Chris Smith. Hometown hero and a brother to everyone. Such a kind soul. This is Heartbreaking.”
Myles Garrett, Browns All-Pro defensive, also expressed his shock and said, “Chris was one of the kindest players and people that I’ve ever met. He was willing to give you the shirt off his back for you. It’s hard just knowing people like that can go at any time.”
Our heartfelt condolences to Chris Smith’s family and friends. May his soul rest in peace!
Add Comment