Broncos defensive lineman Antonio Smith was awakened Wednesday with news that his 55-year-old father had died in Oklahoma.
"It's rough. I just found out this morning. It was my mom who called and told me. The call came in at about 6:30," Smith told me outside of the hotel where the Broncos are staying during preparation for Super Bowl 50.
Marty Williams, who has been incarcerated in prison for more than two decades, died after complications from recent heart surgery, according to our partners at the Denver Post.
Smith will stay with the team and intends to play Sunday against the Carolina Panthers.
Smith is a 34-year-old NFL veteran who joined the Broncos this season after being released by Oakland. He recorded 2 1/2 sacks for the league's top-ranked defense, but is also valued as a strong presence in the locker room and a mentor to younger teammates.
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