The former defensive end for the Cincinnati Bengals passed away suddenly. Chris Smith, who was only 31 years old, expired on April 17, 2023. It was his former high school that confirmed the news of his death, but the reason behind his passing remains undisclosed. Fans were taken aback when they got to know of what happened, and some sent kind words to his family, who is going through such a difficult time.
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Many NFL players described Smith, who played for several teams over eight years, as a kind soul. The entire league came together to pray for the former Ravens DE. The horrific incident reminded many fans of what happened with Buffalo Bills’ safety, Damar Hamlin, a few months ago.
https://twitter.com/cramfram/status/1648379582394019840?s=20
The sudden passing away of Chris Smith brought back terrible memories of Hamlin’s collapse
Three and a half months ago, Hamlin suffered cardiac arrest during the first quarter of the January 2 regular-season Monday Night Football game against the Cincinnati Bengals. When the 25-year-old collapsed on the field, he was immediately given CPR. In the meantime, the paramedics prepared for him to be taken off the field.
The entire field was shocked, and fans were in disbelief after witnessing the frightful sight. The game was initially postponed but later canceled. Fortunately, the young player fought against all the odds and overcame his saddening situation.
Damar Hamlin has been "fully cleared" to resume football activities, Bills GM Brandon Beane announced. pic.twitter.com/a2avQrl2UK
— ESPN (@espn) April 18, 2023
Now, the safety was given the green light to return to playing football. Buffalo’s general manager Brandon Beane disclosed the positive news on Tuesday. “He’s fully cleared, he’s here and he is of the mindset, he’s in a great head space to come back and make his return,” Beane said.
Hamlin participated in voluntary workouts with the Bills this week. Also, he saw his specialist last Friday, who cleared him and gave the final verdict.
What was Smith’s net worth in 2023?
The death of the former Jacksonville Jaguars DE shocked the football world to its core. He passed away at an unexpected time, but fans are keen to know what the professional athlete accomplished during his time in the league. According to The Squanderer, the total net worth of Smith is around $6–8 million.
The Jaguars drafted him in the first round. His first contract earned him $2.4 million. The deal ran from 2014 to 2017. Then, in 2017, he went to the Cleveland Browns.
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. pic.twitter.com/K8HySW4erM
— Cleveland Browns (@Browns) April 18, 2023
With the Browns, he earned up to $12 million over three years with $4.5 million guaranteed. In 2020, he was with the Carolina Panthers, but could only earn up to $1.495 million for a year. But before the year ended, he was traded to the Las Vegas Raiders. The contract gave him $901,000 and lasted until the end of the season. Then, in 2021, he signed a $252,000 contract with the Ravens. Later, in 2021, he earned $42,000 with the Houston Texans. In 2022, he became a free agent.
