The NFL family lost a member recently when former New Orleans Saints defensive end Will Smith was shot after a traffic accident in New Orleans. Carolina Panthers safety Roman Harper was devastated about the loss of his former teammate and posted a heartfelt letter to Smith on Facebook.

Posted about my guy @iWillSmith @Saints on my fb fanpage here: https://t.co/Ifj4LvETPC … It was kinda long so bear with me #WhoDat #RIP — Roman Harper (@Harp41) April 12, 2016

“I will lead off by saying if God can forgive all sins then so can I. Will Smith, my brother and teammate, you will be missed dearly and I still can’t wrap my imagination that you are no longer with us on this earth. This tragedy could have happened to anybody, and that’s what scares and eats at me the most,” Harper wrote on his Facebook wall. The violence that has been present in New Orleans for quite some time is starting to reach to everyone including the players the city once protected.

Harper spoke about how the fans loved their Saints players so deeply during his time in New Orleans that crime and violence made exceptions to the players. The tide seems to have changed now and anyone is subject to the cruel and violent acts that take place daily in the city.

“I do know that Will Smith we will “walk together forever,” and you are already truly missed by many. As our captain on the field you helped bring our team, organization, and city together in our championship year in 2009, and in your death you will bring us all back again “CLOSER THAN EVER” in 2016. We Love You and Rest in Peace Will.”

Smith and his family are in the hearts and minds of so many and we are truly saddened by the loss of a fellow NFL family member.