The San Francisco 49ers announced some horrificly sad news early Saturday evening. Former All-Pro pass rusher and one-of-a-kind talent Aldon Smith has died.
The team issued a statement:
“We are devastated by the sudden and tragic passing of Aldon Smith. Aldon’s undeniable talent and sheer dominance on the field were on display from the moment he joined our organization, having recorded one of the best rookie seasons the National Football League has seen. Beyond his excellence as a player, Aldon will be remembered for his infectious smile that lit up every room he walked into. Our entire organization sends its deepest condolences to the Smith family and all who knew and loved Aldon.”
Smith would have turned 37 in September.
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Smith’s rookie season produced 14 sacks, which is still the second-most by a rookie in a single season in NFL history. He was a first-team member of the All-Pro team in 2012, and a 2013 Pro Bowler. His rookie year wasn’t his best season, as Smith had a whopping 19.5 sacks in his second season. That is still a franchise record, as are Smith’s 33.5 sacks through two seasons.
It was a tumultuous career for Smith, who was drafted seventh overall in a historic 2011 NFL Draft. There’s no need to get into the negative history on a day where is family and friends are mourning.
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