Former NFL DB Alphonso Smith Dies at 40 Following 44-Game Pro Career

Alphonso Smith, a two-time All-America defensive back who recorded eight interceptions in the NFL, has died at the age of 40 in Pahokee, Florida.

Alphonso Smith, a two-time All-America defensive back who recorded eight career interceptions and two touchdowns during four NFL seasons, died Wednesday at the age of 40. Wake Forest University confirmed the news Thursday afternoon after being informed by Smith’s family. The Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office reported that deputies responded to a Pahokee, Florida, address regarding a suicide attempt on Wednesday afternoon. An adult male was subsequently transported to a hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.

Smith’s professional career began when the Denver Broncos selected the Wake Forest standout in the second round of the 2009 NFL draft. During his rookie campaign, he appeared in 15 games for Denver, contributing as a returner for both punts and kickoffs. Prior to the start of the 2010 season, the Broncos traded the defensive back to the Detroit Lions. Smith spent the next two years in Detroit, appearing in 33 games and earning 11 starts. During this tenure, he reached his statistical peak, returning two of his eight interceptions for scores.

Collegiate Accolades and High School Success

Before entering the professional ranks, Smith established himself as a premier defender at Wake Forest. He redshirted as a freshman before playing four active seasons for the Demon Deacons. His performance earned him third-team Associated Press All-America honors in 2007, followed by a first-team AP All-America selection in 2008.

His football roots trace back to Pahokee High School, where he functioned as a two-way star. In 2003, he played both quarterback and defensive back to lead his team to a Florida state championship. Following his 44-game NFL career, Smith returned to the sidelines in 2013 as a reporter for Wake Forest football broadcasts. During that same period, he served as an assistant coach for a high school program in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.

Post-Playing Career and Final Statements

Smith eventually transitioned into leadership roles within Florida high school athletics. He served as the head football coach at Moore Haven High School and later returned to his alma mater, Pahokee High School. At Pahokee, he balanced coaching duties with his role as the dean of students in charge of discipline. His most recent professional position was listed as the director of marketing for a family physician located in South Florida.

On the day of his death, a post appeared on Smith's Facebook account addressing his mental health struggles. The message included the statement, "Do not cry for me!" and expressed that he had fought internal demons. Smith used the platform to apologize to his children and suggested that childhood trauma contributed to his mental anguish. He noted that he had sought help but did not receive it, concluding his post by stating, "I pray my soul rest in heaven for my heart is pure."

Final NFL Stint and Roster Transitions

The Detroit Lions released Smith just before the commencement of the 2012 season. Although the organization re-signed him later that same year, he was released a final time after appearing in four games as a backup defender. This concluded his active playing career, which spanned from his 2009 draft selection through the 2012 season. The school's official release on Thursday did not specify a cause of death beyond the details provided by local law enforcement regarding the Wednesday afternoon incident in Pahokee.