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Former Detroit Lions CB Alphonso Smith Dies at 40

Denver Broncos traded Alphonso Smith to Detroit Lions back in 2010.
John Maakaron|
Former Detroit Lions defensive back Alphonso Smith (27) against the Minnesota Vikings
Former Detroit Lions defensive back Alphonso Smith (27) against the Minnesota Vikings | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

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Former Detroit Lions cornerback Alphonso Smith has tragically passed away at the young age of 40.

According to a report from TMZ, Smith ended his life in Florida, after posting a disturbing message on social media.

"Do not cry for me! I tried everything in my power to fight the demons behind the ones that someone put into ME! I did not want to be that WAY! I know I have disappointed so many folks," Smith shared on social media. "This is a DEMON in me! But not only me! It's EVERYONE! I have HURT so many! I needed help & did not get it! I am so sorry! I am a piece of (expletive)! It's a lot of you that are! I am A COWARD! A HUGE COWARD! I am so sorry."

Unfortunately, the former Lions defender alluded to potential abuse suffered in childhood.

"Things happened to your boy, your brother while I was little that an older lady did onto me. As a result guys, I did the same onto others!. Please pray over your families! PLEASE PRAY FOR ALL I've affected! I am the WORST & I pray my soul rest in heaven for my heart is pure," Smith wrote. "But my BRAIN & experience is MESSED UP."

Smith played collegiately at Wake Forest and was a second-round draft pick of the Denver Broncos back in 2009.

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In order to select him, the Broncos were willing to trade their 2010 first-round pick to the Seattle Seahawks. In the end, the Seahawks used that first-round pick the following season to select Earl Thomas.

In September of 2010, the Broncos traded Smith to the Lions.

In a memorable game, a Thanksgiving loss to the New England Patriots, Smith taunted Pro Football Hall of Fame quarterback Tom Brady.

The Patriots quarterback went on to target Smith repeatedly, throwing three touchdown passes with Smith in coverage. New England went on to defeat the Lions, 45-24.

The 2012 season would be his final season in the NFL.

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John Maakaron
JOHN MAAKARON

John Maakaron has covered Detroit Sports since 2013. Brings a vast array of experience covering the Detroit Tigers, Detroit Lions, Michigan Wolverines, Michigan State Spartans, Detroit Mercy Titans, and Oakland University Golden Grizzlies. John brings a wealth of sports broadcast experience. In 2013, John had the vision to establish the Detroit Sports Podcast Network. Has recorded over 3000 podcasts analyzing Detroit Sports. In 2019, Sports Illustrated Media Group, a historical sports media outlet, partnered with Detroit Sports Podcast to provide daily Lions content for their growing and expanding digital media outlet. Our Lions content can also be read in the newspaper at The Oakland  Passionate about Detroit Sports and it is reflected in his coverage of the local teams!

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