Former Raiders fullback dies from ALS

Former Raiders fullback Steve Smith has died aft a agelong conflict with Lou Gehrig’s Disease. He was 57.

The Raiders announced Smith’s decease Saturday, calling him an inspiration for “smiling each time portion ever moving for a cure for” amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.

Smith was drafted successful the 3rd circular by the Raiders successful 1987 aft starring successful assemblage astatine Penn State wherever helium helped the Nittany Lions triumph their past nationalist title successful the 1986 season.

Smith was the pb blocker during his nine-year NFL vocation for stars similar Marcus Allen and Bo Jackson. He besides ran for 1,627 yards and 9 TDs successful 7 seasons for the Raiders and 2 successful Seattle.

Smith was diagnosed with ALS astir 2 decades agone and was incapable to locomotion oregon speech successful caller years.

The squad says its thoughts are with Smith’s widow, Chie, their children, Dante and Jazmin, and their grandson Little Steve.