Former New Orleans Saints Mike Karney Releases Statement on Late Teammate Will Smith

Former New Orleans Saints Fullback Mike Karney has released a statement on the tragic and sudden death of teammate Will Smith. Mike and Will were both drafted in 2004 and were teammates for five years.

Will and I met post-combine in Arizona, staying in shape at Athletes Performance in preparation for our individual pro days back in 2004. My first impression of Will was how quiet, humble, and hard-working he was. It sounds cliche, but he was definitely one of those guys who talked quietly but carried a big stick.

When we were both drafted to the Saints in 2004, I was pumped to become teammates with him. That's when we really got to know one another and I knew that we had a lot in common when it came to the game of football. Will was the epitome of what you wanted in a teammate - a leader, hard-worker, and tough guy you always knew had your back on the field.

We both started as rookies, and had hoped to accomplish what he was able to be apart of: bringing a world championship to the City of New Orleans.

The senseless and tragic loss of Will has rocked me to my core. I am beyond blessed and grateful to have been a teammate of Will for 5 years. I pray for comfort, support, and tremendous love for his wife, Racquel, and their three children.

I love you, my brother, teammate, and friend. You may be gone, but you will never be forgotten. Your legacy will live on forever and ever... Rest in Peace.

-Mike Karney

Thank-you as always, Mike, for taking the time to address the issue. Make sure you follow Mike on Twitter @Karney44.