Former San Diego Chargers linebacker Billy Ray Smith Jr. died at 64 after a battle with dementia caused by chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), his family announced. The Chargers’ 1983 first-round draft pick left a legacy spanning 10 seasons on the field and decades in sports broadcasting.
NBC 7 San Diego Billy Ray Smith Jr., a cornerstone of the San Diego Chargers’ defense during the 1980s and a familiar voice in local sports media, died Wednesday at 64 after a prolonged struggle with dementia linked to chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), his family confirmed. The Chargers’ fifth overall selection in the 1983 NFL Draft, Smith played 10 seasons with the team, recording 26.5 sacks, 15 interceptions, and 14 fumble recoveries before transitioning to broadcasting.
Family Statement and Legacy
The Smith family described his final days as marked by unmatched bravery, dignity, and strength
in facing CTE-related 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 read, emphasizing his role as a devoted father, husband, son, and loyal friend. His legacy, the family noted, would endure through the irreplaceable void
he left in their lives and the outpouring of love and support
from the community.
NFL Career and Stats
Smith’s NFL career began in 1983 when the Chargers selected him fifth overall, a decision that solidified his place as one of the franchise’s most decorated players. Over 10 seasons, he played 140 games, amassing 26.5 sacks, 15 interceptions, and 14 fumble recoveries. His 1989 season earned second-team All-Pro honors, and he was named the Chargers’ Defensive Player of the Year in 1985 and 1986. The Chargers’ 50th Anniversary Team included Smith, recognizing his contributions as a fixture in the defense.
Broadcasting Legacy
After retiring in 1992, Smith remained deeply involved in San Diego’s sports scene. He worked as a television sports anchor for KGTV, contributed to Chargers preseason broadcasts, and served as a college football analyst for Fox Sports. His radio show, The Scott and B.R.
Show,
co-hosted with Scott Kaplan, became a staple of Southern California sports talk. KGTV, where his wife Kimberly Hunt works as a news anchor, was the first to report his death, underscoring his enduring ties to the local media landscape.
CTE and Health Struggles
Newsweek explicitly linked Smith’s dementia to CTE, a condition often associated with repeated head trauma. The outlet described his lengthy battle with the disease, emphasizing how he faced it with unmatched bravery, dignity, and strength.
The article also noted his induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2000, a recognition of his collegiate achievements that predated his NFL success.
Community Impact and Personal Life
Beyond football and broadcasting, Smith was known for his community involvement. His family highlighted his roles as a husband, father, son, and loyal friend, though specific details about his charitable work were not elaborated in the sources. The Chargers’ tribute to him emphasized his presence, both on and off the field.
Smith’s passing leaves a void in San Diego’s sports community, where he was celebrated as both a player and a broadcaster. His career, marked by resilience and dedication, serves as a testament to the lasting impact of athletes who transcend their playing days. As the Chargers and fans reflect on his contributions, the focus remains on the legacy he leaves behind—a blend of on-field excellence, media presence, and community engagement that defined his life.
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