Chargers legend Bill Ray Smith passes away at 64
3 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 30, 2026, 10:33 PM
Last updated Jul 30, 2026
Billy Ray Smith, a 10-year veteran with the Los Angeles Chargers, died at 64 on July 30, 2026. His family reported that his passing was related to dementia stemming from CTE. Chargers owner Dean Spanos described Smith as a larger-than-life figure who embodied team spirit. Smith, chosen fifth overall in the 1983 NFL Draft, was a reliable linebacker, known for his defensive prowess, earning team MVP honors in 1987. His impressive career totaled 598 tackles and multiple defensive accolades.
- •Billy Ray Smith passed away after battling dementia related to CTE.
- •Smith played his entire NFL career with the Chargers from 1983 to 1992.
- •He was named team MVP and defensive player of the year during his career.
- •Chargers owner Dean Spanos expressed deep sadness over Smith's passing.
- •Smith was a key figure in the Chargers' 50th Anniversary team.
- 10:33 PMYahoo Sports — Chargers news: Former linebacker Billy Ray Smith dies at 64
- 6:16 PMYahoo Sports — Chargers legend Bill Ray Smith passed away at 64
- 12:24 AMNBCSports.com — Former Chargers LB Billy Ray Smith dies at 64 - NBC Sports
"Chargers legend Billy Ray Smith, who played his entire 10-year career with the Bolts, passed away at the age of 64.
"Former Chargers linebacker Billy Ray Smith Jr. died Wednesday, his family announced.
"Former Chargers first round pick and linebacker has passed away at the age of 64.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsJul 30, 2026, 10:33 PMChargers news: Former linebacker Billy Ray Smith dies at 64
Former Chargers first round pick and linebacker has passed away at the age of 64.
- Yahoo SportsJul 30, 2026, 6:16 PMChargers legend Bill Ray Smith passed away at 64
Chargers legend Billy Ray Smith, who played his entire 10-year career with the Bolts, passed away at the age of 64.
- NBCSports.comJul 30, 2026, 12:24 AMFormer Chargers LB Billy Ray Smith dies at 64 - NBC Sports
Former Chargers linebacker Billy Ray Smith Jr. died Wednesday, his family announced.
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