Will Smith (defensive end) facts for kids
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Smith with the Saints in 2012
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| Position: | Defensive end | ||||||||||||
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| Born: | July 4, 1981 Queens, New York, U.S. |
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| Died: | April 9, 2016 (aged 34) New Orleans, Louisiana, U.S. |
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| Height: | 6 ft 3 in (1.91 m) | ||||||||||||
| Weight: | 283 lb (128 kg) | ||||||||||||
| Career information | |||||||||||||
| High school: | Utica (NY) Proctor | ||||||||||||
| College: | Ohio State | ||||||||||||
| NFL Draft: | 2004 / Round: 1 / Pick: 18 | ||||||||||||
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| * Offseason and/or practice squad member only | |||||||||||||
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| Player stats at PFR | |||||||||||||
William Raymond Smith III (born July 4, 1981 – died April 9, 2016) was an amazing American football player. He played as a defensive end in the National Football League (NFL). Will Smith played college football for Ohio State University. He was chosen by the New Orleans Saints in the first round of the 2004 NFL Draft. He played his entire NFL career with the Saints, helping them win a Super Bowl.
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Early Life and High School
Will Smith was born on July 4, 1981, in Queens, New York. He grew up in Utica, New York. At Proctor High School in Utica, he was a standout player. USA Today even named him an All-American pick. Experts thought he was the best defensive line player in his state. In his final year of high school, he made 20 sacks.
College Career at Ohio State
Will Smith was a key player for Ohio State from 2000 to 2003. He played for four years and earned a "letter" each year, which means he was a valuable team member. He helped the Buckeyes win the 2002 BCS National Championship. This is a huge achievement in college football! The next year, in 2003, he was named a first-team All-American. This means he was recognized as one of the best college players in the entire country.
Professional Football Journey
Will Smith began his professional career after being drafted by the New Orleans Saints. He quickly became a strong player on their defense.
Joining the New Orleans Saints
The New Orleans Saints picked Will Smith as the 18th player in the first round of the 2004 NFL Draft. He had a great first year, making 30 tackles and 7.5 sacks. In 2005, he continued to improve with 48 tackles and 8.5 sacks. This led the Saints to make him a full-time starter.
Becoming a Defensive Leader (2006)
In 2006, Will Smith became a leader on the Saints' defensive line. He was one of the NFL's top defensive ends. He had a career-best 10.5 sacks that year. Because of his excellent performance, he was chosen for his first Pro Bowl. The Pro Bowl is an all-star game for the best players in the NFL.
Key Seasons and Big Plays (2007–2010)
In 2007, Smith led his team with 7 sacks and made 66 tackles. He even scored a safety! In 2008, the Saints signed him to a big contract. This showed how much they valued him as a player.
In 2009, under a new defensive coach, Smith had his best season for sacks, with 13.0. He also made 49 tackles, forced 3 fumbles, and even caught one interception. He was recognized as an honorable mention All-Pro player. In 2010, he continued to be a solid player for the Saints.
Later Years with the Saints (2011–2013)
Will Smith kept playing well in 2011, with 35 tackles and 6.5 sacks. In 2012, he played in all 16 games and had 58 tackles and six sacks.
In 2013, Smith was going to try a new position, outside linebacker. However, he got a serious knee injury during a preseason game. This injury, a torn ACL, meant he had to miss the entire season. The Saints later released him in 2014.
Time with the New England Patriots (2014)
After leaving the Saints, Will Smith signed with the New England Patriots in April 2014. However, he was released by the team before the regular season began.
Personal Life
Will Smith was married to Racquel Joseph. They had two children together. He also had another child from a previous relationship.
A Tragic Loss
On April 9, 2016, Will Smith passed away in a tragic incident. He was a beloved player and person. His passing was a great loss to his family, friends, and the entire football community.
Images for kids
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Will Smith with the Saints in 2012
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Smith sacks Jason Campbell.
