Chris Smith, a former NFL defensive end, passed away on September 23, 2020, at the age of 31. The news of his death came as a shock to the football community and fans around the world. Smith had a promising career ahead of him, but his life was cut short due to a tragic accident.
Smith was born on February 11, 1989, in Mount Ulla, North Carolina. He attended West Rowan High School, where he played football and basketball. Smith was a standout athlete and was named the Rowan County Defensive Player of the Year in his senior year.
After high school, Smith attended the University of Arkansas, where he played college football for the Razorbacks. He was a key player on the team’s defense and helped lead them to a Cotton Bowl victory in 2012. In his senior year, Smith was named to the All-SEC Second Team.
In 2014, Smith was drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the fifth round of the NFL Draft. He spent three seasons with the Jaguars before being traded to the Cincinnati Bengals in 2017. Smith played for the Bengals for two seasons before being released in 2019.
Smith’s NFL career was cut short due to injuries and inconsistent play, but he remained active in the football community. He started the Chris Smith Foundation, which aimed to provide support and resources to underprivileged children in his hometown of Mount Ulla.
On September 11, 2019, Smith’s girlfriend, Petara Cordero, gave birth to their daughter, Haven Harris Smith. Just weeks later, on September 11, Cordero was tragically killed in a car accident. Smith was devastated by her death but remained strong for his daughter.
On September 23, 2020, Smith was driving on I-90 in Cleveland when his car blew a tire and crashed into a median. He exited the vehicle to check on the damage when another car struck him, killing him instantly.
The news of Smith’s death was met with an outpouring of support from the football community and fans. Many of his former teammates and coaches shared their condolences on social media, remembering him as a kind and hardworking person.
Smith’s death is a tragic reminder of how fragile life can be. He had a promising career ahead of him and was making a positive impact in his community. His legacy will live on through his foundation and his daughter, Haven.
