Billy Ray Smith, top-5 NFL draft pick, dead at 64; family says CTE caused dementia

Former San Diego Chargers linebacker Billy Ray Smith died this week at the age of 64, his family announced.The family said Smith, a College Football Hall of Famer, "faced [a] long journey with dementia caused by CTE."Chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) is a progressive, degenerative brain disease linked to repeated head impacts rather than a single injury, according to the Mayo Clinic.More than 100 former NFL players have been posthumously diagnosed with CTE, according to a University of Utah study published in the Journal of Neurotrauma.CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COMBilly Ray Smith No.

54 of the San Diego Chargers is in action against the Miami Dolphins during an NFL game Oct.16, 1988, at Joe Robbie Stadium in Miami.

(Getty Images)"Billy Ray brought so much joy, light, and laughter to the world as a devoted father, husband, son, and loyal friend," the family said in a statement, adding that he fought his illness "with unmatched bravery, dignity, and strength."This year, the families of Aldon Smith, Steve McMichael and Claude Lemieux have all said the former athletes' brains will be sent for CTE research.Smith's cause of death is still pending, while Lemieux died by suicide by hanging and McMichael suffered from ALS.

Former running back Chris Johnson revealed earlier this year he, too, has been diagnosed with ALS.Billy Ray Smith #54 of the San Diego Chargers is in action during an NFL game circa 1988 at Jack Murphy Stadium in San Diego, California.(Getty Images)BEARS LEGEND BRIAN URLACHER TALKS TEAM'S LIKELY MOVE, USC SON'S COLLEGE CAREERCTE can only be officially diagnosed after death."To know Billy Ray was to love Billy Ray.

Yes, he was a member of our 50th Anniversary team.Yes, he was a Charger for life, playing his entire 10-year career here," Chargers owner Dean Spanos said in a statement.

"But he wasn't merely a great football player.He was, truly, larger than life.

Always smiling.Lighting up every room he walked into.

Infectious ...