Billy Ray Smith Jr, Chargers legend and College Football Hall of Famer, dead at 64
Billy Ray Smith Jr., the longtime San Diego Chargers linebacker and College Football Hall of Famer, died Wednesday following a “long journey with dementia caused by CTE,” his family have announced.He was 64 years old.“It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of our beloved Billy Ray Smith Jr., who passed away peacefully surrounded by family,” Smith’s family said in a statement.
“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 returrn.“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.”Smith followed in his father’s footsteps and starred at the University of Arkansas, where he was named All-American in 1981 and 1982.“I knew going into [the recruiting process] that I’m not going to leave Arkansas and go to another school unless they just blow me away and they didn’t,” Smith Jr.told Pro Players Business Network.Lou Holtz, who coached Arkansas from 1977 to 1983, once said of Smith, “Billy Ray is so quick he plays tennis with himself.”Smith was team captain in 1982, leading Arkansas to a 9-2-1 record.
He recorded 299 tackles at Arkansas, including 63 tackles for a loss.The San Diego Chargers selected Smith fifth overall in the 1983 NFL Draft, making him the first defensive player picked in the class.He would go on to play his entire 10-season NFL career with the Chargers.In 1986, he recorded a career-high 11 sacks and forced four fumbles.
The following season, Smith intercepted a career-high five passes despite only playing 12 games b...