The Los Angeles Chargers franchise suffered a crushing loss on Thursday morning. Billy Ray Smith, who was one of the best linebackers in franchise history and a key member of some of their more exciting teams during their San Diego stint, passed away at just 64 years old.
The Smith family released a statement that confirmed No. 54 had been struggling with CTE-caused dementia in the last few years of his life. "Billy Ray faced his long journey with dementia caused by CTE with unmatched bravery, dignity, and strength," the statement read. "Billy Ray brought so much joy, light, and laughter to the world as a devoted father, husband, son, and loyal friend."
Chargers owner Dean Spanos put out his own statement calling Smith "larger than life" and discussed how much Smith adored the franchise and his teammates. Chargers fans of a certain age will remember what a rock-solid performer Smith was in his career.
Former Chargers linebacker Billy Ray Smith passes away at 64 after fight with CTE
Smith comes from a football family. His father, Billy Ray Smith Sr., played in the NFL for 13 years as a defensive tackle, nine of which were spent as a key starter on some great Baltimore Colts teams. Smith was though of so highly thought of as college prospect that the Arkansas star was picked fifth overall in the legendary 1983 NFL Draft, ahead of Bruce Matthews, Jim Kelly, and Dan Marino.
Smith played for 10 seasons in San Diego, serving as a ferocious linebacker who helped take some subpar Chargers defense and make them into something to be feared. In his career, Smith was credited with 15 interceptions and 26.5 sacks. 1989 was his best season, as he was named Second Team All-Pro by the Newspaper Enterprise Association.
Smith retired in 1992 after 10 seasons with the lightning bolt on his helmet and spent his post-football life in San Diego as a radio show host and sports director at a local ABC affiliate. Smith was voted to the Chargers' 50th Anniversary team in 2009. Smith and Junior Seau combined to give the Chargers decades of high-end linebacker play.
Smith remains one of the greatest linebackers in a franchise that has produced some of the best players at that position in NFL history. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the Smith family, the Chargers organization, and anyone close to him during this difficult time.
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