Former NFL Defensive Back Alphonso Smith Dies at 40
The Wake Forest All-American and 2009 second-round pick played four seasons in the NFL with the Broncos and Lions.
Former NFL defensive back Alphonso Smith died on Sept. 2 at age 40. Wake Forest University, his alma mater, said it was informed of his death by his family.
What's known about the circumstances?
The Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office confirmed deputies responded to an address in Pahokee, Florida, on Sept. 2 in reference to a suicide attempt. No official cause of death has been announced by a medical examiner or family spokesperson. Anyone struggling with thoughts of suicide can reach the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988.
What was his career like?
Smith was a two-time All-American defensive back at Wake Forest from 2005 to 2008 and a member of the school's 2006 ACC championship team. The Denver Broncos drafted him in the second round of the 2009 NFL Draft. He played in the league from 2009 to 2012, spending time with the Broncos and four seasons with the Detroit Lions.
Sources
- ESPN: Former Wake Forest, NFL DB Alphonso Smith dies at age 40
