Chris Smith: Mother of his seven-year-old son posts heartfelt tribute after ex-NFL player’s death

The mother of Chris Smith’s seven-year-old son has paid tribute to the former NFL player following his death at age 31 in an emotional post.

Smith died just hours after playing for the Seattle Sea Dragons in the XFL, and no cause of death has been released to date.

Tributes poured in for the ex-defensive end on Tuesday and now Alexis Dodds, the mother of Smith’s son Jayceon, has taken to social media and shared a heartbreaking post.

Alongside a TikTok reel of photos and videos featuring Chris, the travel nurse wrote, “Where do I start? In 2013 my life changed forever without my knowing it. I thank God for the 10 years I’ve known you, but I thank him even more for letting us create a son, a legacy.

You brightened up a room with your smile and spirit. We’ve had a lot of highs and lows… a lot of people could never understand our relationship.

The mother of Chris Smith’s seven-year-old son has paid tribute to the former NFL player

“But through all this, we knew we were family and loved each other very much. I can’t believe I’m writing this right now, and I don’t know how to tell our son you’re gone.

‘I promise your legacy will live on forever! We love you Smitty..fly high honey.’

The 2014 NFL Draft pick spent time with seven different teams over eight seasons in the league, ending his pro career with the Houston Texans in 2021.

Smith’s last Instagram post was on March 30, titled “XFL Live,” where he appears to be talking about playing soccer with a teammate. Comments below paid tribute to Smith, with a saying, “Love you fam fly high.”

He was represented by Nicole Lynn, the agent who negotiated Monday the $255 million deal that signed Jalen Hurts with the Philadelphia Eagles, making him the highest-paid player in NFL history.

The Cleveland Browns said in a statement Tuesday, “We are deeply saddened by the passing of former Browns DE Chris Smith. Chris was one of the nicest people, teammates and friends we’ve had in our organization. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this difficult time.”

In a tweet revealing Smith’s passing on Monday, West Rowan High School’s football account said, “Rest in peace to a West Rowan legend!

Chris was a better person than player! The impact he had on those around him will be remembered forever!’

Cleveland Brown’s tight David Njoku added in his own tribute, “Rest in paradise Chris Smith.” Hometown hero and a brother to all. Such a kind soul. This is heartbreaking.’

Smith died just hours after playing for the Seattle Sea Dragons in the XFL

Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson was one of the people who paid tribute to Smith

Your legacy lives on as a person who spreads love with a smile. love you brother.’

Russell Wilson tweeted Tuesday: RIP Chris Smith. Pray for your loved ones.’

Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson wrote on Twitter: ‘So sorry to hear this news. Heartbroken for Chris’ family. Our entire XFL universe sends love, light and strength to the Smith family. Stay strong. We are here. DJ.’

Smith played for the Seattle Sea Dragons of the XFL this season. He previously played eight seasons in the NFL with Jacksonville, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Las Vegas and Houston.

While Smith was with the Browns in 2019, his girlfriend, Petara Cordero, was killed when she was hit by a car after getting out of the vehicle he was riding in. Cordero was standing on the shoulder when the vehicle driven by a 47-year-old woman crashed into the passenger side of Smith’s car.

“Chris was one of the friendliest players and people I’ve ever met,” said Browns All-Pro defender Myles Garrett. “He was willing to give you the shirt off his back for you. It’s hard to know that such people could leave at any moment.’

Smith and Cordero had a daughter shortly before Cordero’s death.

After playing in Arkansas, Smith was drafted in the fifth round by the Jaguars in 2014. He finished with 11 career sacks in 72 games.