Aldon Smith, former All-Pro San Francisco 49ers linebacker, dies at 36
CBS News • • sports
Key Points:
- Former San Francisco 49ers linebacker Aldon Smith has died at age 36; the team praised his talent and infectious smile but did not disclose a cause of death.
- Smith was a standout player, drafted seventh overall in 2011, and set a franchise record with 19.5 sacks in 2012, earning First Team All-Pro honors and playing in Super Bowl XLVII.
- His NFL career was marred by multiple suspensions related to substance abuse and personal conduct violations, leading to his release from the 49ers and a four-year absence from the league.
- Smith played for the Oakland Raiders in 2015 and returned to the NFL in 2020 with the Dallas Cowboys, completing his final season before retiring.