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Chargers Legend Billy Ray Smith Jr. Dies at 64
Remembering Billy Ray Smith: A Chargers Legend and Beloved Broadcaster
Who Was Billy Ray Smith?
Billy Ray Smith was a football superstar who played for the San Diego Chargers and later became a famous sports broadcaster. Think of him like a real-life superhero who tackled bad guys (quarterbacks!) on the field, then used his voice to tell sports stories on TV and radio.
Important Point: Billy Ray Smith passed away on Wednesday at age 64, according to KGTV (the news station where his wife works).
His Amazing Football Journey
1. Getting Drafted – The Big Day
In 1983, the San Diego Chargers picked Billy 5th overall in the NFL Draft. That’s like being chosen first for the all-star team!
2. Ten Years of Chargers Football
- Played: 1983–1992 (his entire NFL career!)
- Position: Linebacker (the player who runs around everywhere making tackles)
- Jersey Number: #54
- Games Played: 137 total
3. His Super Stats
Billy wasn’t just good—he was great. Check out these numbers:
| Stat | Number | What It Means |
|---|---|---|
| Sacks | 26.5 | Times he tackled the quarterback behind the line |
| Interceptions | 15 | Times he caught the other team’s pass |
| Fumble Recoveries | 14 | Times he grabbed a dropped ball |
4. Best Season Ever: 1989
- Earned All-Pro 2nd Team honors
- This means he was one of the best linebackers in the entire NFL that year!
5. Ultimate Honor
Named to the Chargers 50th Anniversary Team — one of the greatest players in franchise history!
Life After Football: The Voice of San Diego Sports
After hanging up his cleats, Billy didn’t slow down. He became a sports broadcasting star:
Where You Could Hear/See Him:
- Television sports shows
- Radio — his show with Scott Kaplan was one of the most popular in Southern California
- Online sports content
Community Hero
Billy used his fame for good:
- Charitable work throughout San Diego
- Community involvement that made a real difference
- Beloved local personality who cared about his neighbors
Family Connection
Important Point: Billy’s wife, Kimberly Hunt, is a well-known news anchor at KGTV — the same station that first reported his passing. They were a true San Diego power couple!
Summary
Billy Ray Smith lived an incredible life in three acts:
- Football Star — 10 seasons dominating for the Chargers
- Broadcasting Legend — Voice of San Diego sports for decades
- Community Champion — Gave back to the city he loved
He wore #54 with pride, sacked quarterbacks 26.5 times, caught 15 interceptions, and recovered 14 fumbles. But maybe his biggest win? Being a husband, father, and friend who made San Diego better.
FAQ
How long did Billy Ray Smith play for the Chargers?
He played 10 seasons (1983–1992) — his entire NFL career was in San Diego!
What position did he play?
Linebacker — the defensive player who runs sideline-to-sideline making tackles, rushing the quarterback, and covering receivers.
What was his best season?
1989 — He made All-Pro 2nd Team, meaning he was voted one of the top linebackers in the whole league.
What did he do after football?
Became a sports broadcaster on TV, radio, and online. His radio show with Scott Kaplan was a Southern California favorite!
Is he in any Hall of Fame?
He’s on the Chargers 50th Anniversary Team — an honor for the greatest players in franchise history.
Billy Ray Smith: Charger for life. Broadcaster by trade. San Diegan at heart.
