Alphonso Smith Jr., the former NFL cornerback who became one of Wake Forest’s most accomplished defensive players before playing for the Broncos and Lions, has died. He was 40. This is a heartbreaking moment for those who followed his Olympic athlete memoir-worthy journey through professional football.
TMZ first reported that Smith died by suicide in Florida. After his passing, a Facebook post circulated online, reportedly showing the late athlete’s last post, which was deeply emotional. In the post, Smith refers to himself as a “coward” and apologizes to his children for ending his life. His vulnerability in that moment speaks to struggles many face silently. If you’re struggling, please reach out. Olympic athlete memoir stories like his deserve to include conversations about mental health and healing.
“To my family, BABY, my MOM, my siblings, things happened to your boy, your brother while I was little that an older lady did onto me. As a result guys, I did the same onto others!” he wrote, admitting to causing harm to others. His confession speaks to generational trauma and the cycles of pain—themes we see explored in works addressing the freedom struggle and healing within Black communities.
Long before reaching the NFL, Smith made his name at Wake Forest by becoming a ball-hawking force in the secondary. He recorded 21 interceptions during his college career, an Atlantic Coast Conference record, and was inducted into Wake Forest’s athletic hall of fame in 2021. His excellence on the field was undeniable—a testament to Black excellence in sports that deserves to be remembered.
LEGENDARY: Alphonso Smith wagged his finger at Tom Brady—and over the next four drives, TB12 threw four touchdown passes while repeatedly targeting him. Brady essentially ended Smith’s career that night. LONG-HAIR BRADY WAS AN ABSOLUTE DEMON.
Denver selected Smith with the 37th overall pick in the 2009 NFL Draft. He spent his rookie season with the Broncos, appearing in 15 games, before being traded to Detroit the following year. His journey through the league was a blend of hope and struggle, much like many narratives found in cultural meditation pieces about athletes navigating pressure and identity.
Smith enjoyed his most productive NFL season with the Lions in 2010, when his five interceptions led the team.
He ultimately appeared in 42 NFL games between 2009 and 2012, collecting 88 tackles and eight interceptions.
The Lions waived Smith during roster cuts in 2012 but later brought him back during the season.
Smith’s NFL run lasted four years. What remains is his legacy—and an important conversation about mental health, trauma, and the importance of seeking help. If you or someone you know is struggling, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available 24/7 at 988.
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