Some shocking news came across the NFL landscape this week, as former defensive lineman Chris Smith died at the age of 31.
No details about the circumstances of his death have been shared.
Smith played eight seasons in the NFL, and after not playing in the league last season, he joined the Seattle Sea Dragons of the XFL this year, playing five games for them.
The official Twitter account of NFL Films shared a touching video honoring the life and career of Smith.
A leader on the field, and a friend to all he played with.
Rest in peace Chris Smith. 🙏 pic.twitter.com/Az6Bx3tyhf
— NFL Films (@NFLFilms) April 18, 2023
Smith was a fifth-round choice by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the 2014 NFL Draft out of the University of Arkansas, where he was named to the All-SEC second team.
He spent his first three seasons with the rebuilding Jaguars, and he recorded 3.0 sacks, four quarterback hits, and a tackle for loss in seven games as a rookie.
Smith spent the 2017 season with the Cincinnati Bengals before moving on to the Cleveland Browns the following two years.
He played the 2020 campaign with the Las Vegas Raiders before wrapping up his NFL career with the Houston Texans in 2021.
Smith ended up playing in 72 games in the league, starting two of them while accumulating 80 combined tackles (54 solo), 11.0 sacks, 26 QB hits, and 12 tackles for loss.
Our thoughts go out to his family and loved ones during this difficult time.
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