Chris Smith was a former NFL defensive end. During his career, he played for the Jaguars, Bengals, Browns, Raiders and Texans.

On Monday, the high school Smith attended, West Rowan, posted a tweet announcing Smith’s death. The tweet reads, “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!”

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! pic.twitter.com/9oVKyM4Gs2

— West Rowan Football (@WRowan_Football) April 18, 2023

Smith was only 31 years old. He died on Monday April 17, 2023. The cause of death and circumstances surrounding his death have not been shared publicly.

After news of his death spread, former teammates took to social media to share touching tributes. The Cleveland Browns tweeted, “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.”

The Jacksonville Jaguars tweeted, “We are saddened to learn of the passing of Chris Smith.”

Former teammate Derek Carr tweeted a simple “Love you bro.”

 

Smith started his NFL career in 2014 when he was selected by the Jacksonville Jaguars. In 2017, after three years, the Jaguars traded Smith to the Bengals. Then in 2018 he signed with the Browns. Two years later, in 2020, he signed with the Raiders, and in 2021, he signed with the Texans.

Smith is preceded in death by his girlfriend, Petara Cordero, who died in 2019. Smith and Cordero were in their car together when one of the tires blew out. They stopped and exited the vehicle. Cordero was hit by another driver who later admitted she had been drinking; however, since she was not legally intoxicated, she was not charged. Cordero was only 26 years old. Four weeks earlier, Cordero had given birth to their daughter, Haven. The couple had planned on getting married in 2020.

Rest in peace