There was some shocking news across the NFL landscape this week, as former defensive lineman Chris Smith passed away at the age of 31.
No details have been shared about the circumstances of his death.
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 for NFL Films shared a touching video honoring Smith’s life and career.
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 the fifth-round pick out of the University of Arkansas in the 2014 NFL Draft by the Jacksonville Jaguars, 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 to the Cleveland Browns over the next two years.
He played the 2020 campaign with the Las Vegas Raiders before ending his NFL career with the Houston Texans in 2021.
Smith ended up playing in 72 games in the league, starting two of them, 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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