Credit: Getty

Alphonso Smith Jr. has sadly died.

The former NFL player has passed away at the age of 40, according to TMZ.

TMZ reports that he died by suicide on Wednesday (September 2) at a housing community in Florida.

His final Facebook post is now gaining attention.

“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. 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!” Alphonso wrote in the post, which is now circulating on social media.

In the lengthy post, Alphonso apologized to his children, family, friends and people he said he had hurt. He wrote about struggling with what he described as “demons,” said he needed help and referenced traumatic experiences from his childhood.

“I am SORRY! THIS IS IT!” he concluded.

Who Was Alphonso Smith Jr.?

Alphonso was a cornerback for four seasons in the NFL. He played college football for the Wake Forest Demon Deacons, receiving All-American honors.

He was selected by the Denver Broncos in the second round of the 2009 NFL draft. During his time in the league, he played for the Detroit Lions as well.

Our thoughts are with Alphonso Smith Jr.‘s loved ones at this incredibly difficult time. We have sadly lost several stars in 2026.

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or visit 988Lifeline.org.

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