Former NFL Player Alphonso Smith Jr. Dies at 40

Former NFL cornerback Alphonso Smith Jr. has died at the age of 40, according to reports.

Smith died by suicide on Wednesday at a housing community in Florida, TMZ reported, citing sources. Few additional details surrounding his death have been made public.

Shortly before his death, Smith posted a deeply troubling message on social media that appeared to reveal the extent of the mental and emotional struggles he had been facing.

“Do not cry for me! I tried everything in my power to fight the demons behind the ones that someone put into ME!” he wrote.

“I did not want to be that WAY! I know I have disappointed so many folks. This is a DEMON in me! But not only me! It’s EVERYONE! I have HURT so many! I needed help & did not get it!”

Smith went on to address members of his family, including his mother, siblings and his child, while describing traumatic experiences from his childhood.

“To my family, BABY, my MOM, my siblings, things happened to your boy, your brother while I was little that an older lady did onto me. As a result guys, I did the same onto others! Please forgive me!”

Throughout the post, Smith repeatedly described himself as a “coward” and expressed remorse for the people he believed he had hurt.

“I am SORRY! THIS IS IT!” he wrote in his final words.

A standout college career at Wake Forest

Before reaching the NFL, Smith established himself as one of the standout defensive backs in college football at Wake Forest University in North Carolina.

He set an Atlantic Coast Conference record for interceptions during his college career, a mark that helped cement his legacy at the school.

Smith was later inducted into the Wake Forest athletic hall of fame in 2021, recognizing his contributions to the university’s football program.

NFL career

Smith entered the NFL in 2009 after being selected No. 37 overall in the draft.

He began his professional career with the Denver Broncos before being traded to the Detroit Lions. Smith remained with Detroit through 2012 and appeared in 42 regular-season games during his NFL career.

His playing career ultimately made him part of the football history of both Wake Forest and the NFL, with his college achievements earning particular recognition long after his professional career ended.

Smith’s death comes after the former cornerback publicly shared a message that suggested he had been struggling deeply and felt he had not received the help he needed.

If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts or a mental health crisis, seek immediate help from local emergency services or a crisis-support service in your area.