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Billy Ray Smith, a two-time All-American linebacker at Arkansas and 10-year NFL player with the San Diego Chargers, died Wednesday. He was 64.
Smith’s family released a statement saying he died of complications from dementia, which the family says was caused by CTE.
“Billy Ray faced his long journey with dementia caused by CTE with unmatched bravery, dignity, and strength,” the statement said, according to The Associated Press. “Billy Ray brought so much joy, light, and laughter to the world as a devoted father, husband, son, and loyal friend.”
to know Billy Ray was to love Billy Ray 💙 pic.twitter.com/sFx8gM8eUX
— Los Angeles Chargers (@chargers) July 30, 2026
Smith was the No. 5 pick in the 1983 draft, one famous for its notable first-round quarterbacks, including John Elway at No. 1 and Dan Marino at No. 27. Smith was named second-team All-AFC in 1986, when he had a career-high 11 sacks, and 1987, when he notched a career-high five interceptions in 12 games. He finished his career with 26.5 sacks and 15 interceptions and was named to the Chargers’ 50th Anniversary Team in 2009.
Smith’s college career was laden with accolades, including unanimous first-team All-American honors in 1981 and 1982 with the Razorbacks. He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2000, joining his father Billy Ray Smith Sr., and is a member of Arkansas’ All-Century Team.
“He wasn’t merely a great football player. He was truly larger than life,” Chargers owner Dean Spanos wrote in a team statement posted on X. “Always smiling. Lighting up every room he went into. Infectious laughter. The kind of friend a friend should be. That was Billy Ray.”
Smith is survived by his wife, Kimberly, and his daughter, Savannah.
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