Los Angeles Chargers

Billy Ray Smith Jr. dies at 64 after CTE-caused dementia

Billy Ray Smith Jr., a 10-year Chargers linebacker and College Football Hall of Famer, died Wednesday at age 64. His family confirmed he had been dealing with dementia caused by chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). Smith was the No. 5 overall pick in the 1983 NFL Draft and one of the most decorated defensive players of his era.