Former NFL cornerback Alphonso Smith Jr., a standout at Wake Forest University who went on to play for the Denver Broncos and Detroit Lions, has died at the age of 40.
Smith died Wednesday, September 2, in Florida, according to reports. TMZ Sports reported that Smith died by suicide at a housing community. Further details surrounding his death were not immediately available.
The tragic news came just hours after Smith shared an emotional and deeply troubling message on Facebook that appeared to reveal that he had been struggling emotionally.
In the post, Smith spoke about fighting what he described as “demons,” apologized to family and friends, and said he had sought help but did not receive it. He also referenced traumatic experiences from his childhood.
Smith’s final message ended with repeated apologies and a farewell, prompting concern from those who saw it before news of his death emerged.
A Standout at Wake Forest
Before reaching the NFL, Smith established himself as one of the most accomplished defensive backs in Wake Forest football history.
Smith played for the Demon Deacons from 2004 through 2008 and became a consensus All-American during his senior season. He also earned first-team All-ACC honors twice and finished his college career with 21 interceptions, an ACC record at the time. Wake Forest later inducted him into its athletic Hall of Fame in 2022.
His accomplishments at Wake Forest helped make him one of the top defensive prospects entering the 2009 NFL Draft.
NFL Career
The Denver Broncos selected Smith with the 37th overall pick in the second round of the 2009 NFL Draft.
He spent his rookie season in Denver before being traded to the Detroit Lions in September 2010. Smith remained with Detroit through the 2012 season.
During his four-year NFL career, Smith appeared in 42 games, recording 88 tackles and eight interceptions. His five interceptions during the 2010 season led the Lions.
After his playing career, Smith returned to football in another role, working as a coach in Florida.
Remembering Alphonso Smith Jr.
Smith’s death marks a heartbreaking loss for his family, friends, former teammates, coaches and the football communities at Wake Forest, Denver and Detroit.
His final social media message has also renewed conversations about the importance of recognizing when someone may be struggling and making sure people have access to meaningful mental-health support.
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
