Bubba Smith, Former Colts Defensive End & Actor in Police Academy Movies, Found Dead in CA Home, He was 66

Former Colts defensive end Bubba Smith, who went on to a successful acting career, including roles in Police Academy movies, was found dead at his Baldwin Hills, Calif., home Wednesday. He was 66. The cause of his death has not been disclosed, though the death reportedly does not appear suspicious.

The top overall pick in the 1967 draft after a sensational career at Michigan State, Smith spent five seasons with the Baltimore Colts and two seasons each with Oakland and Houston. He won the 1971 Super Bowl with the Colts.

One of the most feared defensive ends in the game, Smith often drew two blockers, yet was effective enough to make two Pro Bowls and one All-Pro team. His best work actually came in college, and Smith was enshrined in the College Football Hall of Fame in 1988.

Smith played for his father, Willie Ray Smith, in Beaumont, Texas, before heading to Michigan State, where he was an All-American in 1966.

Rest in peace Officer Hightower!