Heartbreaking news: the sports world has lost yet another star. Former NFL defensive end Chris Smith has died at the age of 31, according to his agent, Drew Rosenhaus.
“Rest in Peace Chris,” Rosenhaus wrote on Twitter. “Condolences to all his family, friends and loved ones. We will miss you.” So far no cause of death or further details were shared Tuesday.
Smith’s death was also confirmed in an obituary by the Salisbury Post on Monday. “It’s a tragic loss for his family, friends, former teammates and for Rowan County,” the outlet wrote. According to the obituary, Smith, who played eight seasons in the NFL, was “the ultimate give-back guy” and was also known as a “generous donor to local schools and projects.”
As the sad news continues to spread online, sports fans and close friends have been pouring in tributes. Smith’s alma mater, West Rowan High School in North Carolina, also shared a tribute while announcing his death on Twitter, writing: “Rest In Peace to a West Rowan Legend! Chris was a better person than he was player! The impact he had on those around him will be remembered forever!” the statement said.
Several NFL players also paid tribute to Smith this Tuesday. “Rest in paradise Chris Smith,” wrote Cleveland Browns tight end David Njoku on Twitter. “Hometown hero and a brother to everyone. Such a kind soul. This is Heartbreaking.” Former Raiders quarterback Derek Carr posted a photo of the two together with the message: “Love you bro.”
Russell Westbrook added, “RIP Chris Smith. Praying for your loved ones.” Media personality John Nabors remembered Smith as “an all-time great Razorback.”
“Just saw the news that former Razorback DE Chris Smith passed away at the age of 31,” Nabors said. “That’s just devastating. That guy was an amazing player on the field & an even more amazing guy off of it.” New England Patriots linebacker Brooks Ellis said,
“Deeply saddened to hear about Chris Smith’s passing. He was not only a great leader, teammate, and monster of a player, but more so an amazing person,” Ellis wrote.
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More On Chris Smith
Smith played for several NFL teams during his eight seasons in the league. He was a fifth-round draft pick of the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2014 following a standout career at Arkansas. He played in three seasons with the Jaguars before joining the Cincinnati Bengals in 2017. As Fox News notes, in 72 career NFL games, he had 80 tackles and 11 sacks. It was said that he had signed a contract with the Seattle Sea Dragons of the XFL and appeared in four games for them this year.
Chris Smith will be greatly missed.
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