RESOLVING THE LEDGER
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See the full story · 2 sourcesFormer NFL linebacker and College Football Hall of Famer Billy Ray Smith Jr. has died. He was 64 years old.
Smith's family announced his death in a statement released on Wednesday, July 29. The statement reads:
It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of our beloved Billy Ray Smith Jr., who passed away peacefully surrounded by family. 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.
After earning unanimous All-American honors in two straight seasons at Arkansas , Smith was selected by the San Diego Chargers with the No. 5 overall pick in the 1983 NFL Draft. He spent his entire, 10-year professional career with the Chargers, playing in 126 games and accumulating 26.5 sacks, 15 interceptions and 13 forced fumbles.
In 2009, Chargers Hall of Famers, Chargers fans and five members of the local media in San Diego voted Smith to the team's 50th anniversary team, made up of the 50 best players in franchise history. He was one of five linebackers on that anniversary squad, which also included Junior Seau and Shawne Merriman.
Smith was the son of former NFL defender Billy Ray Smith Sr., who played 13 years for the Los Angeles Rams, Pittsburgh Steelers and Baltimore Colts. Smith Sr. died in 2001 of complications from cancer at 66 years old.
Chargers owner's statement on Billy Ray Smith Jr.'s death
Los Angeles Chargers owner Dean Spanos released a statement on social media following the news of Smith's death:
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to know Billy Ray was to love Billy Ray 💙 pic.twitter.com/sFx8gM8eUX
— Los Angeles Chargers (@chargers) July 30, 2026
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