NFL world mourn the tragic death of former star Chris Smith at the age of 31

The American football world is mourning the tragic death of former NFL star Chris Smith at the age of 31.

The young player spent eight seasons in the NFL where he played for the likes of Jacksonville Jaguars, Cleveland Browns, and Las Vegas Raiders, among others.

He was currently plying his trade in the XFL for the Seattle Sea Dragons, with his death coming just eight days after his last game.

The cause of his death is not immediately known, according to The New York Post.

His former high school, West Rowan, confirmed the news through their football team’s Twitter account.

They wrote: “Rest in Peace to a West Rowan Legend! Chris was a better person than he was player! The impact he had on those around him will be remembered forever!”

Rest in Peace to a West Rowan Legend! Chris was a better person than he was player! The impact he had on those around him will be remembered forever! pic.twitter.com/9oVKyM4Gs2

— West Rowan Football (@WRowan_Football) April 18, 2023

The football world echoed the sentiment with many flooding in to pay tribute to the young player.

His agent Drew Rosenhaus wrote: “Rest in Peace Chris. Condolences to all his family, friends and loved ones. We will miss you.”

Smith’s former side Cleveland, said: “We are deeply saddened by the passing of former Browns DE Chris Smith.

“Chris was one of the kindest people, teammates and friends we've had in our organization. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time.”

Seattle Sea Dragons shared a message from the XFL: “The entire XFL family mourns the loss of Chris Smith, a cherished player and member of the Seattle Sea Dragons.

“Chris was a powerful presence in the locker room and universally loved by teammates and the coaching staff, he will be deeply missed by all. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his entire family and teammates at this time.”

Many sent their condolences out to the player and his family and friends.

We are saddened to learn of the passing of Chris Smith. pic.twitter.com/VKTiHSTwE7

— Jacksonville Jaguars (@Jaguars) April 18, 2023

Rest In Peace, Chris Smith.

Chris came to the Jaguars in 2014 and spent 3 years here. He was a great teammate and friend.

He suffered a tragic loss in 2019 when Petara, his girlfriend + mother of his child passed away in a vehicular accident.

I hope they're reunited in Heaven

— Tony Khan (@TonyKhan) April 18, 2023

A leader on the field, and a friend to all he played with.

Rest in peace Chris Smith. 🙏 pic.twitter.com/Az6Bx3tyhf

— NFL Films (@NFLFilms) April 18, 2023

Rest in paradise Chris Smith. Hometown hero and a brother to everyone. Such a kind soul. This is Heartbreaking

— Chief David Njoku (@David_Njoku80) April 18, 2023

I am saddened to share that Chris Smith passed away earlier this week. Chris was a hard worker and an all around great person. He was an important part of our Sea Dragon family and will be greatly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with his friends and family at this time. pic.twitter.com/PKTvalisiZ

— Jim Haslett (@JimHaslett55) April 18, 2023

Smith’s career was marked by tragedy when he lost his girlfriend, Petara Cordero, in 2019 to a tragic car accident.

Cordero had exited a vehicle before a car smashed into the passenger side of Smith’s car.

Smith and Cordero had a daughter named Haven together.