Former NFL star Bubba Smith, who went from feared defensive end on the field to endearing giant in his successful second career as an actor, died Wednesday. He was 66.

Former NFL star Bubba Smith, who went from feared defensive end on the field to endearing giant in his successful second career as an actor, died Wednesday. He was 66.

Los Angeles County coroner's spokesman Ed Winter says Smith was found dead Wednesday, Aug. 3, 2011, at his Baldwin Hills home. Winter says he didn't know the circumstances or cause of death.