Wake Forest Standout And Ex-Broncos Cornerback Dies In Florida
Former NFL cornerback Alphonso Smith Jr. has died at the age of 40, according to reports citing sources with knowledge of his death.
Smith, who played for the Denver Broncos and Detroit Lions, died in Florida on Wednesday, September 2, 2026. TMZ Sports reported that his death was a suicide.
Smith’s Football Career
Smith became a standout player at Wake Forest University, where he earned All-American recognition and set a school record with 21 career interceptions.
He was selected by the Denver Broncos in the second round of the 2009 NFL Draft before later moving to the Detroit Lions.
Smith recorded five interceptions for Detroit during the 2010 season and spent four seasons in the NFL.
Death Reported After Social Media Post
Reports said Smith had published an emotional message on Facebook shortly before his death.
TMZ reported that the message referred to personal struggles and included apologies to family members.
Because the circumstances surrounding his death involve suicide, detailed descriptions of the method are not included here.
What We Know
- Alphonso Smith Jr. died at 40.
- He was a former NFL player who represented the Denver Broncos and Detroit Lions.
- He was a standout at Wake Forest University.
- TMZ Sports reported that he died by suicide in Florida.
