Former NFL cornerback Alphonso Smith Jr. dies at age 40

Former NFL player Alphonso Smith Jr. died on Wednesday, September 2, at age 40. His death was reported by TMZ following a social media post he published earlier the same day. Smith Jr. played as a cornerback for the Denver Broncos after being selected with the 37th overall pick in the 2009 NFL Draft. He later spent time with the Detroit Lions during a professional career that concluded in 2012. Before entering the league, he was a standout player at Wake Forest University from 2004 to 2008. In his final social media entry, he addressed his family and peers while discussing personal struggles. No further details regarding the circumstances of his passing were provided.

• 10:03 PMYahoo Sports — Former NFL Player Alphonso Smith Jr. Dead at Age 40 After He Shared Distressing Social Media Post