Former NFL Player Alphonso Smith Jr. Dies by Suicide at Age 40

Former NFL player Alphonso Smith Jr. has reportedly died by suicide at the age of 40. Smith Jr. passed away at a housing community in Florida on Wednesday, according to TMZ. A final Facebook post on Smith Jr.'s account referenced 'demons' and concluded with the phrase: 'THIS IS IT!' In the post, he expressed struggles with his mental health and stated, 'I tried everything in my power to fight the demons behind the ones that someone put into ME!' He also mentioned needing help but not receiving it. Smith Jr. played college football at Wake Forest from 2004 to 2008 before being drafted by the Denver Broncos with the 37th overall pick in the 2009 NFL Draft. He recorded 188 total tackles and 21 interceptions during his college career. Smith Jr. was traded to the Detroit Lions in 2010 and played three seasons with the team before retiring after the 2012 season. In total, he played in 42 NFL games, recording 88 tackles and eight interceptions. His death follows that of former NFL player Jordan Devey, who also died by suicide at the age of 38 in July. Devey's wife, Lindsey, confirmed his death in an emotional Instagram tribute. A GoFundMe campaign was launched to support Devey's family, highlighting the emotional and financial challenges they face. If you or someone you know needs help, please call or text the confidential 24/7 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in the US at 988.