Former Chargers LB Billy Ray Smith dies at 64
NBC Sports • • sports
Key Points:
- Former Chargers linebacker Billy Ray Smith Jr. passed away at age 64, surrounded by family, after battling dementia caused by CTE.
- Smith was a respected NFL player, drafted fifth overall by the Chargers in 1983, and played all 10 seasons of his career with the team, earning notable defensive stats.
- He was a two-time unanimous All-American at the University of Arkansas and finished eighth in Defensive Rookie of the Year voting.
- After retiring from football, Smith had a successful career as a sports broadcaster across TV, radio, and online platforms.
- The Chargers honored Smith as a member of their 50th Anniversary Team, and his family expressed gratitude for the support and love received during this difficult time.
