What happened to Cam Smith's sister? 2023 draft prospect had to battle trauma of tragic early death

Modified Mar 03, 2023 22:56 GMT

South Carolina CB Cam Smith (r) with his sister Gabrielle (l)

Cam Smith will likely hear his name called in April's NFL Draft, but someone special to him will not be in attendance. Smith's sister, Gabrielle Smith, or “Gabbie,” was born on Oct. 4, 2005. Sadly, Gabbie passed away less than three months afterwards.

Doctors said her tragic death was due to sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Smith was six years old when he lost his baby sister.

Per The Mayo Clinic, SIDS is defined as “the unexplained death, usually during sleep, of a seemingly healthy baby less than a year old.” The standout 2023 NFL Draft prospect wears a medallion on his neck in honor of his late sister. When he became a father in 2021, he gave his daughter the middle name Gabrielle.

Cam Smith wearing a medallion in honor of his sister (l) and Smith's daughter (r). Source: @_MLFootball (Twitter)

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At the age of 17, Smith got his first tattoo and it has his baby sister's name running down his left forearm. The Gamecocks cornerback has had Gabrielle with him throughout his college career. Smith was one of the best cornerbacks in the SEC in his sophomore season.

That season, he had 41 tackles, 11 passes defended, three interceptions and a forced fumble. His 11 passes defended were the second-most in the SEC in the 2021 season. Last season, he finished with All-SEC Honors, getting 27 tackles, five passes defended, and an interception.

Where will Cam Smith land in the 2023 NFL Draft?

According to Pro Football Focus (PFF), Smith is the third-best cornerback prospect in this year's class. Michael Renner of PFF raved about Smith and how impressive he is in terms of his skill set.

Renner said:

"Smith also possesses some of the best ball skills in the class, with 16 pass-breakups and six interceptions on 94 career targets. He may not ever be among the elite at the position due to his athletic profile, but he’s a guy you want on your defense."

Without question, Cam Smith's football journey up to this point has been one of tragedy. That will soon change as Smith realizes his dream of playing in the NFL and Gabrielle will be there every step of the way.

If you use any of the above quotes, please credit Pro Football Focus and H/T Sportskeeda.