Will Smith was nearing MBA at Miami when slain

Will Smith was on track to graduate from the University of Miami's inaugural MBA program for artists and athletes when the former New Orleans Saints defensive end was shot and killed last month.

On Tuesday night, Smith's wife Racquel accepted that masters degree on Smith's behalf during the school's graduation ceremony.

It was one of the first public appearances for Racquel Smith, who was also shot in each of her legs on the night of April 9 after a traffic incident that turned into a fatal confrontation.

Smith, 34, was also considering a coaching internship with the Saints this summer as he continued to plan for his life beyond football. Smith's playing career ended in 2014 after he spent his…