Billy Ray Smith was a professional football player who played as a linebacker for the Baltimore Colts and the San Diego Chargers. He was born on February 8, 1939, in Fayetteville, Arkansas, and attended the University of Arkansas, where he played college football.
Smith was drafted by the Baltimore Colts in the third round of the 1963 NFL Draft. He played for the Colts for six seasons, from 1963 to 1968. During his time with the Colts, Smith was a key player on the team's defense, helping them win the NFL Championship in 1968. He was named to the Pro Bowl in 1967 and 1968 and was also named First-Team All-Pro in 1968.
In 1969, Smith was traded to the San Diego Chargers, where he played for two seasons, from 1969 to 1970. He continued to be a dominant force on defense, helping the Chargers reach the playoffs in both seasons. He was named to the Pro Bowl in 1969 and was also named First-Team All-Pro that same year.
Smith retired from football after the 1970 season, having played in 119 games over eight seasons. He finished his career with 16 interceptions, 11 fumble recoveries, and two touchdowns.
After retiring from football, Smith worked as a color commentator for CBS Sports, covering NFL games from 1973 to 1986. He was also a co-host of the television show "The NFL Today" from 1977 to 1982.
In 1994, Smith was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame for his outstanding career at the University of Arkansas. He was also inducted into the Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame in 1979 and the University of Arkansas Sports Hall of Honor in 1995.
Smith passed away on October 9, 2011, at the age of 72. He is remembered as one of the greatest linebackers in the history of the NFL and a true legend of the game.
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