New Orleans Saints

New Orleans Saints pay tribute to Will Smith

Published Apr. 10, 2016 10:46 a.m. ET

Nick Schwartz

Former New Orleans Saints defensive end Will Smith was shot and killed Saturday night in New Orleans in an apparent road-rage attack. Police say Smith's vehicle was hit from behind by a Hummer, and Smith exchanged words with the driver. The driver of the Hummer shot Smith and his wife. Smith died at the scene, and his wife has been hospitalized.

Smith was 34 years old, and a father of three children. He played nine seasons in the NFL, all with the Saints, and was a part of the Super Bowl-winning team in 2010.

The NFL community was stunned by the news. The Saints offered their prayers to the Smith family in a statement released Sunday morning.

Many of Smith's former teammates expressed their shock and anger on social media.

Heavy Hearts w the senseless passing of our Team Capt. Will Smith. Pray for his wife's recovery and their children. pic.twitter.com/VomR0Sut6M
— Sean Payton (@SeanPayton) April 10, 2016

Sad to hear the terrible news about Will Smith, he was a great person and I will forever remember the times I had with him. #RIPWillSmith
— Rob Ninkovich (@ninko50) April 10, 2016

Damn man, just saw the bad news... was looking forward to meeting him... #willsmith #nolalegend
— Delvin Chip Breaux (@BreauxShow24) April 10, 2016

Wowwwwww R.I.P. #WILLSMITH God Bless his kids don't wish that on anyone man wtf LIFE IS SHORT MAN #PRAYEVERYDAY
— Junior Galette (@JovaisG) April 10, 2016