Alphonso Smith, a two-time All-America defensive back who played four seasons in the NFL, has died at age 40. The Wake Forest alumnus passed away Wednesday in Pahokee, Florida. The Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office confirmed deputies responded to a suicide attempt at a local address.

Smith leaves behind a complex legacy as a talented athlete and devoted family man. Drafted 56th overall by the Denver Broncos in 2009, Smith also played for the Detroit Lions, appearing in 44 NFL games with eight interceptions. Before his professional career, Smith starred at Wake Forest, earning first-team All-America honors in 2008.

He attended Pahokee High School, where he won a Florida state title in 2003. Following his playing days, Smith served as a high school coach and later worked in marketing for a South Florida physician. The sports community mourns the loss of a gifted player taken too soon.