Never in my life have I seen so many young, seemingly healthy professional athletes die suddenly. Yet, ever since “the jabs” it seems to be happening every week. The latest victim is former NFL player Chris Smith (who played for the Cleveland Browns). Smith even played in the XFL last season. Yet, he died suddenly in North Carolina yesterday.. Causes “unknown”.
Chris Smith, a former NFL defensive end who played for several teams over the course of his eight-year career, has died, according to an obituary in a North Carolina newspaper. He was 31.
The circumstances around Smith’s death were not immediately known.
West Rowan High School in North Carolina and Smith’s former Cleveland Browns teammate David Njoku were among those who sent their condolences on social media.
“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!” the high school’s football Twitter account wrote.
Njoku added: “Rest in paradise Chris Smith. Hometown hero and a brother to everyone. Such a kind soul. This is Heartbreaking.”