Dallas Cowboys

Former Saints LB writes beautiful tribute to Will Smith

Published Apr. 11, 2016 11:11 a.m. ET

Nick Schwartz

The New Orleans Saints, along with football fans, players and coaches across the country, are mourning the loss of former defensive end Will Smith, who was shot and killed Saturday at the age of 34. Many of Smith's former teammates have shared touching remembrances of the Saints veteran and Super Bowl champion, and on Monday former Saints linebacker Scott Shanle wrote an emotional letter to his lost friend.

Not making this senseless tragedy about me but reflecting tonight on treasured time w a great man... #RIPWillSmith pic.twitter.com/4J8qsGU40i
— Scott Shanle (@scottshanle) April 11, 2016

Shanle came to New Orleans in 2006 after being traded by the Dallas Cowboys and played seven seasons for the Saints, winning Super Bowl XLVI along with Smith. Shanle became close friends with Smith during that time, and shared some of his fondest memories of his former teammate.

Before EVERY game Will played this @aliciakeys song on repeat. I got it on repeat for u tonight buddy#RIPWillSmith https://t.co/WsOcDAAI2n
— Scott Shanle (@scottshanle) April 11, 2016