Former NFL Cornerback Alphonso Smith Jr. Dies by Suicide at 40

On September 2, Alphonso Smith Jr., a former NFL cornerback, died by suicide at a housing community in Florida. Hours before his death, he posted a lengthy message on Facebook that described battling “demons,” apologized to family and friends, and referenced abuse he suffered as a child.

Just Jared

Alphonso Smith Jr. was a standout cornerback at Wake Forest University from 2004 to 2008, earning All-American honors in his senior season and being inducted into the school’s athletic Hall of Fame in 2022. He led Division I college football with eight interceptions in 2007 and seven in 2008, finishing his collegiate career with 21 interceptions—the most in Wake Forest history.

New York Post

Smith entered the NFL after being selected in the second round (37th overall) of the 2009 NFL Draft by the Denver Broncos. After one season in Denver, he was traded to the Detroit Lions at the start of the 2010 season. He recorded a career-high five interceptions in 2010 and added three more the following year. Smith’s NFL tenure ended after the 2012 campaign, having played 42 games with 88 tackles and eight interceptions.

New York Post

• College interceptions: 8 (2007), 7 (2008); 21 career interceptions, the program record.

New York Post

• NFL production: 88 tackles, 8 interceptions in 42 games; career-high 5 interceptions in 2010.

New York Post

• Key game: On December 11, 2011, Smith returned an interception for a touchdown for the Detroit Lions against the Minnesota Vikings at Ford Field.

New York Post

Mental-health resources have been highlighted in coverage of Smith’s death. The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 for anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts, reachable by calling 988, texting 741741, or via online chat at 988lifeline.org.

USA Today

• “Do not cry for me! I tried everything in my power to fight the demons behind the ones that someone put into ME! I did not want to be that WAY! I know I have disappointed so many folks. This is a DEMON in me! But not only me! It’s EVERYONE! I have HURT so many! I needed help & did not get it!” — Florida. Alphonso

TMZ

• “I tried everything in my power to fight the demons behind the ones that someone put into ME! I did not want to be that WAY! I know I have disappointed so many folks. This is a DEMON in me! But not only me! It’s EVERYONE! I have HURT so many! I needed help & did not get it! I am so sorry!” — Alphonso Smith, a standout cornerback at Wake Forest

USA Today

Smith’s death underscores the mental-health challenges that can affect former professional athletes. His final message, which openly described emotional distress and a sense of personal failure, has prompted renewed discussion about the availability of support services for retired players and the broader public.

USA Today