49ers, Raiders remember ‘undeniable talent’ Smith, 36

Monday, June 15, 2026

Former NFL linebacker Aldon Smith, known for his record-setting early career with the San Francisco 49ers, has died at age 36, with no cause of death disclosed. Smith’s promising trajectory was marred by repeated legal and substance abuse issues that ultimately limited his playing time despite multiple attempts at comebacks.

Aldon Smith, the former NFL pass rusher known for his early dominance on the field and subsequent legal troubles, has died at the age of 36. The San Francisco 49ers announced his passing on Saturday night but did not disclose a cause of death.

Smith was selected seventh overall by the 49ers in the 2011 NFL Draft out of the University of Missouri. He quickly established himself as one of the league’s top defensive players, recording 14 sacks in his rookie season, the second-highest total in the league, and finishing runner-up to Von Miller for the AP Defensive Rookie of the Year award. Smith’s 19½ sacks in 2012 set a franchise record and earned him first-team All-Pro honors. Over his first two seasons, Smith amassed 33½ sacks, the most in NFL history for that span.

His promising career began to falter in 2013 after legal issues emerged. Smith was arrested for driving under the influence and later entered rehab for substance abuse, causing him to miss five games. That year, he also faced an arrest on a weapons charge but returned to play and recorded 3½ sacks in the playoffs.

Despite his efforts to rebound, including public statements about his ongoing recovery and support from family and teammates, Smith faced multiple suspensions and injuries that limited his play. The 49ers released him in August 2015 following a fifth DUI arrest in three years. Shortly thereafter, Smith signed with the Oakland Raiders, where he played nine games and tallied 3½ sacks before another suspension sidelined him.

In a statement, the 49ers expressed devastation over Smith’s sudden passing and praised his talent and personality, recalling the “infectious smile that lit up every room.” The Raiders also acknowledged Smith’s contributions and said he was respected by his teammates and would be deeply missed.

Smith continued his NFL career with other teams, including a stint with the Dallas Cowboys in 2020, where he appeared in 16 games and registered five sacks. Despite a career marked by on-field achievement, Smith’s journey was frequently overshadowed by off-field challenges that ultimately hindered his ability to sustain the early success he displayed.

Authorities and the teams involved have not released additional details regarding the circumstances of his death.