Former NFL defensive lineman Chris Smith died at 31-years-old on Monday.
The causes of his death are not immediately known.
Smith started his football career at West Rowan High School in Mount Ulla, North Carolina. where he evolved into a three-star recruit before signing with the Arizona Razorbacks.
Smith appeared in six games as a true freshman. His senior season, he earned an All-Southeastern Conference selection.
The Jacksonville Jaguars selected Smith with the 159th overall pick in the fifth round of the 2014 NFL Draft. He went on to a seven-year career in the NFL, featuring stops with the Cincinnati Bengals, Cleveland Browns, Carolina Panthers, Las Vegas Raiders, and Houston Texans.
Most recently, Smith played with the Seattle Sea Dragons of the XFL.
Tributes poured in for Smith on social media.
“Rest in Peace to a West Rowan Legend! Chris was a better person than he was player! The impact he had on those around him will be remembered forever!” his high school football program wrote on Twitter.
“Rest in paradise Chris Smith. Hometown hero and a brother to everyone. Such a kind soul. This is Heartbreaking,” Browns tight end David Njoku wrote.
“RIP. Great guy. Suffered tragic death of his girlfriend while he was here with Browns,” wrote Browns beat reporter Mary Kay Cabot.
[Fox News]
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