Long-time San Diego Chargers linebacker Billy Ray Smith Jr. has passed away at 64 after a battle with dementia that his family blames on the degenerative brain disease chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE).
Smith’s exact cause of death has not been revealed publicly.
‘It is with profound sadness that we share the loss of our beloved Billy Ray Smith Jr., who passed away peacefully surrounded by family,’ the family said in a statement this week. ‘Billy Ray faced his long journey with dementia caused by CTE with unmatched bravery, dignity, and strength.
‘Billy Ray brought so much joy, light, and laughter to the world as a devoted father, husband, son, and loyal friend. On the NFL gridiron for a decade with the Chargers, and decades that followed in sports broadcasting, Billy Ray earned deep respect from teammates, colleagues, and fans, who he cherished in return.
‘He leaves an irreplaceable void in our lives. His undeniable legacy will live forever in our hearts, and we thank our incredible community for the outpouring of love and support.’
It’s not clear if the family was referring to an official CTE diagnosis. The degenerative brain condition, which has profoundly impacted many former NFL players, can only be diagnosed posthumously.
Long-time San Diego Chargers linebacker Billy Ray Smith Jr. has passed away at 64 after a battle with dementia that his family blames on the degenerative brain disease CTE
Smith was a punishing LB who could also drop into coverage. He retired with 15 interceptions
Recently, the family of former NFL offensive lineman Jordan Devey shared their belief that he, too, suffered from CTE prior to his recent suicide. Unfortunately, due to the specific circumstances of his death, Devey’s brain cannot be studied by experts, according to his father, Kerry.
Another former Chargers linebacker, Hall of Famer Junior Seau, was found to have CTE after his 2012 suicide.
While Smith did not commit suicide, his 10-year NFL career certainly exposed him to repeated head trauma, which is believed to be the underlying cause of CTE. For every 2.6 years in the game, the risk of the brain disease doubles, according to the Boston University CTE Center.
Smith had a 10-year NFL career, all of which was played with the Chargers.
The ferocious Arkansas product recorded 26.5 sacks, 15 interceptions and 13 forced fumbles over 126 NFL games. He would go on to be named to the Chargers’ 50th Anniversary Team.
The son and namesake of another Arkansas linebacker, the younger Smith never did win a Super Bowl as his father did with the Baltimore Colts in January of 1971.
Smith Jr. later became a popular sportscaster at San Diego’s KGTV, where his wife, Kimberly, worked as an anchor.
In addition to his wife, Smith Jr. leaves behind a daughter, Savannah, who was born in 1992.
