The girlfriend of Browns defensive end Chris Smith, Petara Cordero, was died in a car accident on Wednesday morning.
Per the Browns website, Smith and Cordero were pulled to the side of Interstate 90 in Cleveland after a tire blowout caused their car to spin and crash into the median. Cordero got out of the car and was struck by another vehicle. She was pronounced dead at the scene.
The couple had a baby daughter who was born during the preseason. Smith has been excused by the team to take whatever time he needs. Counselors will be available for players and coaches.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Smith and his family and friends, and especially his daughter, after this terrible tragedy.
