Ex-49ers player apologizes to Aldon Smith's family in touching tribute
SFGATE • • sports
Key Points:
- Former NFL player Amir Shirazi found Aldon Smith unresponsive in his truck on Saturday, leading to Smith's hospitalization and subsequent death at age 36; the Santa Clara County Medical Examiner is investigating the cause.
- Smith had been delivering pizzas to a local charity with Shirazi earlier that day and was remembered by teammate and friend Brandon Dixon on Instagram, who expressed sorrow and a commitment to mental health awareness.
- Aldon Smith, drafted 7th overall by the 49ers in 2011, had a promising start with multiple All-Pro honors and playoff appearances but faced numerous legal and substance abuse issues that derailed his career.
- Smith's off-field troubles included multiple arrests, suspensions, and a jail sentence, leading to his release from the 49ers in 2015; he played briefly for the Raiders and Cowboys afterward.
- Dixon, who played with Smith on the 49ers and maintained a close friendship, thanked fans and the 49ers organization while pledging to continue advocating for mental health in Smith’s memory.
