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Former Cleveland Brown defensive lineman Chris Smith has died aged 31 and people who knew him personally mourn the man revered as a “caring soul”.
The tragic news was confirmed on Twitter by multiple sources, including Smith’s alma mater, West Rowan High School.
“Rest in peace to a West Rowan legend! Chris was a better person than he was a player. The impact he had on those around him will be forever remembered!
It is not known what caused Smith’s death.
Comedian B. Simone, who dated the baller in 2021, was one of many to pay tribute to the defensive end.
“One of the ONLY things in life promised is death,” Simone wrote on her InstaStory.
She also implored her followers to, “Love people when they are physically here and if you really love them, cover them with prayer.
“God is a God without error even when you are grieving or hurting. TRUST in him. He will not disappoint you…”Life is precious,” she added with a broken heart emoji.
Many people pointed to the sad news that the mother of Smith’s daughter, Petara Cordero, also died when she was fatally hit by a vehicle in 2020 after leaving the defensive end Lamborghini.
“She didn’t feel any pain,” Smith said. Sports Illustratedd at the time. “It was as if she had died in her sleep.”
Smith found love two years later with B. Simone, although they kept their relationship relatively private.
The couple gave the public a glimpse into their blossoming romance as the football star shared a photo on Valentine’s Day 2021.
Fans were thrilled the actress finally found her “BOOYFRIEEEND!” but the two ended their romance soon after in July of that year.
The football community was blindsided by Smith’s death and many teams and players showed how much the footballer is loved.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of former Browns DE Chris Smith,” the Cleveland Browns organization shared via Twitter.
“Chris was one of the nicest people, teammates and friends we’ve had in our organization. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time. »
“Chris was one of the nicest players and people I’ve ever met,” Browns All-Pro defensive end Myles Garrett said. The Associated Press. “He was ready to give you the shirt off his back for you. It’s hard to know that people like that can leave at any time.
His agent Drew Ronsenhaus also shared his condolences via Twitter,
“Rest in peace Chris. “Condolences to all his family, friends and loved ones. You will be missed.”
Cleveland Browns tight end David Njoku said:
“Rest in heaven Chris Smith. Hometown hero and brother to everyone. Such a kind soul. It’s heartbreaking.
And similarly, former Raiders player Derek Carr’s succinct message read,
“I love you, my brother”
The Jacksonville Jaguars selected Smith in the fifth round of the 2014 NFL Draft after playing college football in Arkansas. The esteemed player also had stints with the Cincinnati Bengals, Las Vegas Raiders, Cleveland Browns, Carolina Panthers and Baltimore Ravens. The Houston Texans signed him from the Seattle Sea Dragons of the XFL in March after playing his final NFL game in 2021.
The loss of a loved one can be devastating, but we can only hope that Petara and her ancestors took her in after she transitioned.
We send prayers to the Smith family at this time.