Former NFL cornerback Alphonso Smith Jr. has died at the age of 40, according to TMZ Sports, which cited sources with direct knowledge. Smith reportedly died by suicide at a housing community in Florida on September 2, 2026, although additional details surrounding his death have not been publicly released.
News of Smith’s death came shortly after he shared a deeply personal message on Facebook that appeared to reflect significant emotional distress. In the post, Smith wrote about struggling with what he described as “demons,” apologized to people he believed he had hurt, and said,
“I needed help & did not get it.”
His post also referenced painful experiences he said occurred during his childhood, although those claims have not been independently verified.
Alphonso Smith Jr.’s football career
Smith built his reputation at Wake Forest, where he played from 2004 through 2008 and became one of the most productive defensive backs in school history. He finished his college career with 21 interceptions, an ACC record, and earned All-American recognition during his senior season.
The Denver Broncos selected Smith 37th overall in the 2009 NFL Draft. He played one season in Denver before being traded to the Detroit Lions, where he spent the remainder of his professional career.
Smith appeared in 42 NFL games between 2009 and 2012, recording 88 tackles and eight interceptions. Wake Forest later honored him with induction into its Athletic Hall of Fame in 2022.
Smith’s death has prompted renewed attention to his football achievements and his final public message. His reported cause of death comes from sources cited by TMZ, while authorities had not publicly released further details at the time of reporting.
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts or experiencing a mental health crisis in the U.S., call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
