Former Ohio State defensive end Will Smith was shot and killed Saturday night after a traffic incident in New Orleans. Smith, who was a Super Bowl champion as part of the Saints organization in the NFL, was just 34 years old.
He was a four-year letterman for the Buckeyes and a captain during the 2003 season.
Below are some additional notes on Smith's playing career:
- With 22.0 sacks, Smith ranks No. 7 all time in Ohio State history trailing only Mike Vrabel, Jason Simmons, Joey Bosa, Matt Finkes, Eric Kumerow and Vernon Gholston.
- Smith ranks sixth all time at Ohio State in tackles for loss with 45.5.
- Smith, a three-year starter, was the 2003 Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year and an All-American at defensive end.
- In 2002, Smith recorded 59 tackles (12.5 for loss) and 5.5 sacks for the Buckeyes during their national championship season.
- In Ohio State's 2002 national championship win over Miami, Smith recorded eight tackles.
- In 2003, Smith had 49 tackles (20 for loss) and 10.5 sacks.
- Selected 18th overall in the 2004 NFL Draft by the New Orleans Saints.
- Smith's NFL career spanned from 2004 to 2012 as he appeared in 139 games.
- Smith recorded 457 career tackles, 67.5 sacks and had 20 forced fumbles. He ranks fourth all time in Saints history in sacks.
- Smith was a 2006 Pro Bowl selection.
