Former San Diego Chargers linebacker and College Football Hall of Famer Billy Ray Smith Jr. has died. He was 64.
Smith's family said in a statement Wednesday that Smith died after dealing with CTE-caused dementia.
"It is with profound sadness that we share the loss of our beloved Billy Ray Smith Jr., who passed away peacefully surrounded by family," the statement said. "Billy Ray faced his long journey with dementia caused by CTE with unmatched bravery, dignity, and strength. Billy Ray brought so much joy, light, and laughter to the world as a devoted father, husband, son, and loyal friend."
CTE is a degenerative brain disease that has been found in athletes in contact sports, combat veterans and others exposed to repetitive head trauma. It has been known to cause violent mood swings, impulsive behavior and depression. It can only be diagnosed after death.
Chargers owner Dean Spanos said Smith "wasn't merely a great football player. He was, truly, larger than life."
to know Billy Ray was to love Billy Ray 💙 pic.twitter.com/sFx8gM8eUX
Smith played 10 seasons with the Chargers after being drafted with the fifth overall pick of the 1983 NFL draft out of Arkansas. He was named to the Chargers' 50th anniversary team after racking up 15 career interceptions, 14 fumble recoveries and 13 forced fumbles.
He was a two-time All-American at Arkansas and was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2000. He starred at Plano Senior High School in Texas.
Smith became the sports director at the ABC affiliate in San Diego following his playing career and was co-host of a long-running radio show while covering college and professional football for national TV broadcast.
His father, Billy Ray Smith Sr., also played at Arkansas and in the NFL from 1957 to 1970 with the Los Angeles Rams, Pittsburgh Steelers and Baltimore Colts.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.