Aldon Smith, a former San Francisco 49ers star whose NFL career evaporated amid a bevy of off-field issues, died Saturday, the Niners announced. He was 36 years old.
The team's 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."
No cause of death was provided.
Smith displayed seemingly unlimited potential in his first two seasons with the Niners. The seventh overall pick of the 2011 NFL Draft was immediately one of the best pass rushers in the NFL, posting 14 sacks in his rookie season to earn Defensive Rookie of the Year honors.
The team's 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."
No cause of death was provided.
Smith displayed seemingly unlimited potential in his first two seasons with the Niners. The seventh overall pick of the 2011 NFL Draft was immediately one of the best pass rushers in the NFL, posting 14 sacks in his rookie season to earn Defensive Rookie of the Year honors.
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