Former All-Pro pass rusher Aldon Smith has died at the age of 36. The San Francisco 49ers, who drafted him seventh overall in 2011, confirmed the news and released a statement expressing condolences to his family.
Smith was one of the NFL’s most dominant young defenders. He recorded 14 sacks in his rookie season and followed it with 19.5 sacks the next year, earning Pro Bowl and first-team All-Pro honors while helping the 49ers reach the Super Bowl.
Born in Greenwood, Mississippi and raised in Missouri, Smith starred at the University of Missouri before entering the NFL as a top prospect. His early career success placed him among the league’s brightest defensive talents.
However, his career was repeatedly interrupted by off-field issues, including legal troubles and struggles with substance abuse, which led to multiple suspensions and time away from football.
Smith later attempted comebacks with the Oakland Raiders and Dallas Cowboys, including a strong return season in 2020, when he was named Comeback Player of the Year by the Pro Football Writers of America.
Despite his on-field brilliance, his career ultimately became a story of both extraordinary talent and personal struggles.