Chris Smith, a former NFL defensive end who was touched by tragedy while playing for the Cleveland Browns, has died. He was 31.
Drew Rosenhaus, Smith’s agent, and the Browns announced his death on Tuesday. The reason for death was unknown at the time.
“Rest in Peace, Chris,” Rosenhaus tweeted. “My heartfelt condolences to all of his family, friends, and loved ones.” “We’ll miss you.”
Smith spent this season with the XFL’s Seattle Sea Dragons. He previously played in the NFL for eight seasons with Jacksonville, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Las Vegas, and Houston.
Smith’s girlfriend, Petara Cordero, was murdered in 2019 when he was with the Browns when she was struck by a car after exiting the vehicle he was driving. Cordero was standing on the road’s shoulder when a vehicle driven by a 47-year-old lady collided with Smith’s automobile.
“Chris was one of the nicest players and people I’ve ever met,” Myles Garrett, a Browns All-Pro defensive end, said. “He would have given you the shirt off his back for you.” It’s difficult knowing that someone like them might go at any moment.”
Smith and Cordero had a daughter not long before Cordero died.
Smith was picked in the fifth round by the Jaguars in 2014 after playing at Arkansas. He concluded his career with 11 sacks in 72 games.
Baker Mayfield, a former Browns quarterback, also conveyed his condolences to Smith.
“To know him was to love him,” Mayfield said on Twitter, beside a picture of Smith leading a Browns huddle. “Heaven has a winner. We will never forget you and will always remember you. Chris, rest in peace.”