Former NFL Player Chris Smith Passes Away at 31: The Sports World Mourns
The news of the sudden and untimely passing of former Cleveland Browns defensive end, Chris Smith, has shocked the sports world. Smith, who was just 31 years old, passed away on April 17th, 2023, at his residence in Charlotte, North Carolina. The announcement was made by his high school football team’s official Twitter account.1
The tragic news has left fans and colleagues in disbelief, with many wondering about the circumstances that led to his death. While the official cause of death has not been released, rumors and speculations about the possible cause of his demise have started to surface.
Table of Contents
Untimely Passing of a Promising Athlete
Chris Smith was a talented and promising athlete, who played college football at Arkansas before being drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2014. He went on to play for the Cincinnati Bengals, the Cleveland Browns, and the Carolina Panthers during his NFL career, which spanned from 2014 to 2020.
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Smith’s sudden death has left his family, friends, and fans in shock, and many are mourning the loss of a talented athlete who had a bright future ahead of him.
Speculations and Rumors Surrounding Smith’s Death
The circumstances surrounding Chris Smith’s death are still unclear, and the official cause of death has not yet been revealed. However, rumors and speculations about the possible cause of his death have started to circulate on social media.
Some have suggested that Smith took his own life, while others have raised concerns about the possibility of foul play. However, until the official cause of death is released, it’s important not to jump to conclusions or spread rumors.
The Legacy of a Talented Athlete
Despite the tragic end to his life, Chris Smith will be remembered for his talent, hard work, and dedication to his sport. He was a promising athlete who had a bright future ahead of him, and his sudden passing is a loss not only to his family and friends but also to the sports community.
As we mourn the loss of Chris Smith, let us remember him for the impact he made during his career and the legacy he leaves behind. May his family and loved ones find peace and comfort during this difficult time.
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Chris Smith: Unraveling the Mystery of His Untimely Death
The sudden death of Chris Smith, a renowned former defensive end for the Jacksonville Jaguars, has left everyone puzzled. The circumstances surrounding his demise are still shrouded in mystery, with conflicting theories suggesting that it could have been either a suicide or murder.2
Chris Smith was just 31 when he passed away, sending shock waves through his family, friends, and former colleagues. He was a gifted athlete who had earned a name for himself through his exceptional skills on the football field. Despite his busy schedule traveling around for games, he always maintained a close connection to his hometown of Rowan County.
The big question on everyone’s mind is what led to Chris Smith’s sudden and tragic death. In this article, we will explore the different theories surrounding his untimely demise and try to piece together the events that led up to it.
Was It Suicide or Murder?
One of the most significant factors contributing to the confusion surrounding Chris Smith’s death is the lack of clarity on whether it was a suicide or a homicide. While some sources suggest that he took his life, others argue that he was the victim of a foul play.
The absence of any conclusive evidence or official statement from law enforcement authorities has only fueled speculations and rumors. However, the one thing that is undeniable is that the world has lost an exceptional athlete and a generous philanthropist, leaving behind a void that cannot be filled.
The Life and Legacy of Chris Smith
Chris Smith’s death has not only left his family and friends in shock but has also deeply impacted the community he served through his charitable donations. He was known for his kind-heartedness and generosity, always going out of his way to help those in need.
Despite his busy career as a professional football player, Chris Smith never forgot his roots and remained connected to his hometown of Rowan County. He would often participate in local events, inspiring and motivating young athletes to pursue their dreams.
NFL Star Chris Smith’s Struggles with Depression After Girlfriend’s Tragic Death
The sudden and tragic death of Chris Smith’s girlfriend, Petara Cordero, in a car accident in 2019 left him and his family devastated.
While the NFL team issued a statement about her passing, there were concerns about Smith’s health in the weeks leading up to his own untimely death. Speculations emerged that he might have been struggling with depression and its consequences.
The Fatal Car Accident
According to reports, Smith and Cordero were driving in his Lamborghini when they had to pull over to the side of I-90 West in Cleveland, Ohio, due to a blown tire. While they waited for assistance, the car hit the median after veering to the left. Cordero, who was a passenger in the car, did not survive the accident.
Chris Smith’s Social Media Tribute to Petara Cordero
Following the tragic incident, Smith posted a heartfelt message on his Instagram account, expressing his love for Cordero and how much he would miss her. In the same post, he mentioned that she was now in a better place and could rest easily. The post conveyed the magnitude of his loss and the emotional impact it had on him and his family.
Smith’s Struggle with Depression
In the weeks following Cordero’s death, there were concerns about Smith’s well-being. The sudden and traumatic loss of his girlfriend might have led to depression and its related consequences. The NFL star was also reportedly struggling to cope with the guilt of being the driver during the fatal car accident.
Smith’s Untimely Death
On September 11, 2020, Chris Smith was involved in a fatal accident on the I-90 in Cleveland. Reports suggest that he had pulled over to the side of the road after his car had a tire malfunction. While he was waiting for assistance, another car hit his vehicle, causing his death.
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Chris Smith: A Closer Look at His NFL Career
Chris Smith, a former standout for the Arkansas Razorbacks, made his mark in the NFL during his seven-year career. From his early days with the Jacksonville Jaguars to his more recent stint with the Seattle Sea Dragons of the XFL, Smith has made a name for himself as a relentless pass rusher and a generous philanthropist.
2022 @NagurskiTrophy Finalist: FS Chris Smith (@cpsmithdb) of @GeorgiaFootball … Fourth-leading tackler on the nation’s top-ranked team and second-best scoring defense. https://t.co/tvdGyc9wdT pic.twitter.com/n6vYnK8Jte
— Football Writers Association of America (@TheFWAA) November 16, 2022
Success with the Arkansas Razorbacks
Before Smith became an NFL player, he was a dominant force at the college level. During his final three seasons with the Arkansas Razorbacks, Smith recorded an impressive 21.5 sacks. This caught the attention of the Jacksonville Jaguars, who drafted him in the fifth round of the 2014 NFL Draft.
Smith quickly made his presence felt in the NFL, playing in 19 games for the Jaguars and registering 4.5 sacks. However, after three seasons in Jacksonville, he was traded to the Cincinnati Bengals in 2017.
Journeyman Years
Smith’s NFL journey took him to several teams, including the Cleveland Browns, Carolina Panthers, Las Vegas Raiders, Baltimore Ravens, and Houston Texans. While he didn’t always play a prominent role on these teams, his skills as a pass rusher were still highly valued by coaches and fans alike.
Joining the Seattle Sea Dragons
In March 2023, Smith joined the Seattle Sea Dragons of the XFL. Although his time with the team was short-lived, playing just five games, he continued to showcase his abilities as a pass rusher.
Final NFL Season
Smith’s last NFL season saw him record a sack against his former team, the Jaguars, while playing for the Texans. It was a fitting end to a career that saw him overcome obstacles and prove his worth on the field.
Charitable Contributions
Off the field, Smith was known for his charitable contributions to his hometown. He was a generous donor to local schools and projects, and his philanthropy was greatly appreciated by those in his community.
Remembering Chris Smith: The Promising Career of a Talented NFL Defensive End
- Chris Smith was a rising star in the National Football League (NFL) who made his mark as a defensive end. Born on February 11, 1992, in the United States, Smith began his football journey in college, playing for the Arkansas Razorbacks. It was there that he honed his skills, establishing himself as a formidable defensive player.
- In 2014, Smith’s talent was recognized by the Jacksonville Jaguars, who selected him in the fifth round of the NFL Draft. This was a significant moment for the young athlete, as it marked the beginning of his professional career.
- During his time with the Jaguars, Smith demonstrated his versatility as a player, showcasing his speed and agility on the field. He became known for his aggressive style of play and was praised for his ability to read the game and anticipate his opponents’ moves.
- In 2017, Smith signed with the Cincinnati Bengals, where he continued to impress his coaches and teammates. He was a vital member of the Bengals’ defensive unit, and his contributions played a crucial role in the team’s success that season.
- Smith’s time with the Bengals was cut short when he was traded to the Cleveland Browns in 2018. Despite the challenges of adapting to a new team, Smith remained determined to make an impact on the field. He remained committed to his craft, consistently putting in the hard work needed to improve his game.
- Tragically, on April 17, 2023, Smith’s life was cut short, leaving the NFL community in shock and mourning. Though his time in the league was brief, Smith made a lasting impression on his teammates, coaches, and fans. He will always be remembered as a gifted athlete who brought passion and energy to the game.
How Chris Smith’s Career in the NFL Spanned Across Five Teams
Former Razorback Chris Smith made a name for himself in the NFL after being drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the fifth round of the 2014 draft. Smith’s four years playing at the University of Arkansas helped him become a starting player for the Razorbacks, setting the stage for his professional career.
Starting with the Jaguars
Smith spent three seasons with the Jacksonville Jaguars, starting in 10 games during his tenure with the team. During his first year, he played in all 16 games, which helped him establish himself as a reliable player in the league. Smith’s performance on the field garnered attention, leading him to sign a new contract with the Jaguars in 2017.
Joining Other Teams
After his successful stint with the Jaguars, Smith joined the Cleveland Browns, Las Vegas Raiders, and Houston Texans from 2018 to 2021. During his time with these teams, Smith proved to be a valuable asset, despite not always being a starting player.
Smith’s Experience with the Panthers
In 2020, Smith joined the Carolina Panthers, where he was placed on the practice squad for the season. While he didn’t see much playing time, his experience on the team helped him develop new skills and adapt to a new environment.
Remembering Chris Smith
Smith’s passing in 2020 was a great loss for the NFL community. Many teams and fans took to social media to remember him, including West Rowan, who wrote on Twitter that “Chris was a better person than he was player! The impact he had on those around him will be remembered forever.”
Facts
- Chris Smith was born on February 11, 1992, in Mount Ulla, North Carolina. He attended West Rowan High School, where he played both football and basketball.
- After high school, Smith attended the University of Arkansas, where he played football for the Razorbacks. During his college career, he recorded 21.5 sacks, which ranks third in the school’s history.
- Smith was drafted in the fifth round of the 2014 NFL Draft by the Jacksonville Jaguars. He played for the Jaguars for three seasons before being traded to the Cincinnati Bengals in 2017.
- In 2018, Smith signed with the Cleveland Browns as a free agent. He played in 16 games for the Browns, recording one sack and 21 tackles.
- On September 11, 2019, Smith’s girlfriend, Petara Cordero, was killed in a car accident in Cleveland. The couple had just welcomed their daughter, Haven Harris Smith, a month prior.
- Just a few weeks after Cordero’s passing, Smith was released by the Browns. However, he was re-signed by the team in November of that year.
- On December 4, 2019, Smith’s car was struck by another vehicle on the side of a highway in Cleveland. Smith’s girlfriend, who was a passenger in the car, was killed in the accident, and Smith suffered minor injuries.
- After the accident, it was reported that the driver of the other vehicle had been drinking and had veered off the road before striking Smith’s car. The driver was charged with DUI and vehicular homicide.
- Smith’s death was ruled accidental, with the cause of death listed as blunt force trauma to the chest. He was just 27 years old at the time of his passing.
- Following Smith’s death, the Cleveland Browns organization released a statement expressing their condolences and describing Smith as a “beloved member of the Cleveland Browns family.” The team also established the Chris Smith Memorial Scholarship Fund to honor his memory.
FAQ’S
1. Who is Chris Smith, and what caused his death?
Ans: Chris Smith was an NFL defensive end who played for teams such as the Jacksonville Jaguars and the Cleveland Browns. He passed away on September 11, 2019, at the age of 27 due to a car accident caused by a tire blowout. However, his girlfriend, Petara Cordero, who was also in the car, tragically passed away at the scene.
2. Was Chris Smith’s death ruled as a suicide or a murder?
Ans: Chris Smith’s death was not ruled as a suicide or a murder. Instead, it was classified as an accident. The car crash occurred after a tire blew out, causing the vehicle to spin and hit a median. Although there was speculation at the time of the accident that Smith may have been impaired while driving, toxicology reports later confirmed that he was not under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
3. What were the details of Chris Smith’s obituary?
Ans: Chris Smith’s obituary highlighted his accomplishments both on and off the football field. It mentioned his time playing for the Cleveland Browns and the Jacksonville Jaguars, as well as his work as an advocate for animal rights. The obituary also noted Smith’s dedication to his family, including his young daughter and his girlfriend, Petara Cordero, who tragically passed away in the same car accident that claimed Smith’s life.
4. How did the NFL community respond to Chris Smith’s passing?
Ans: The NFL community mourned the loss of Chris Smith and expressed their condolences to his family and loved ones. Teams and players, including the Cleveland Browns and Smith’s former teammate, Calais Campbell, took to social media to share their memories of Smith and offer support. The NFL also paid tribute to Smith with a moment of silence before a Thursday Night Football game between the Browns and the Cincinnati Bengals.
5. How has Chris Smith’s legacy been remembered?
Ans: Chris Smith’s legacy has been remembered for his talent on the football field, his dedication to animal rights, and his love for his family. The Chris Smith Memorial Foundation was established in his honor, which aims to support organizations that promote animal welfare and help families who have experienced similar tragedies. Smith’s daughter, Haven Harris Smith, was also named an honorary captain for the Browns in honor of her father during a game in 2020.
