Former Missouri, San Francisco 49ers star dead at 36
Aldon Smith, a former NFL star with a record-setting career and personal struggles, has died at age 36.
Olivia Bennett 
The football world is mourning the loss of Aldon Smith, the former NFL defensive standout who passed away Saturday at the age of 36. No cause of death has been disclosed for the late star, whose career was marked by incredible highs and notable personal turbulence.
A Trailblazing Start
Smith first made a name for himself as a force of nature at the University of Missouri. During his collegiate career, he earned recognition as the Big 12 Defensive Freshman Player of the Year and secured a spot on the All-Big 12 team, signaling a massive NFL future.
That potential was realized almost immediately upon his arrival in San Francisco. After a dominant rookie campaign where he notched 14 sacks and finished as the runner-up for Defensive Rookie of the Year honors, Smith reached his zenith in 2012. That season, he tallied 19.5 sacks—a mark that continues to stand as the 49ers' single-season record—earning him Pro Bowl and All-Pro selections.
Remembering His Legacy
In a statement regarding the news reported by 205focus.com, the 49ers organization expressed their devastation over the tragedy. The team highlighted both his on-field dominance and his character, noting, “Aldon’s undeniable talent and sheer dominance on the field were on display from the moment he joined our organization... Beyond his excellence as a player, Aldon will be remembered for his infectious smile that lit up every room he walked into.”
Career Turbulence and Redemption
Despite his meteoric rise, Smith’s professional journey was interrupted by a series of legal issues and off-field controversies. His 2014 season was derailed by a nine-game suspension for violating the NFL’s substance abuse policy, and the 49ers eventually released him following a 2015 arrest.
Smith’s career path included stints with the Oakland Raiders and the Dallas Cowboys. After an initial retirement in 2019, he made a brief return to the field with the Seattle Seahawks in 2021 before being released following another arrest. By 2023, he had officially retired from professional football.
In his final years, Smith dedicated himself to personal growth and mentorship. He took on the role of a coach and advisor, working with teams and young athletes to share lessons from his own journey and helping them navigate the challenges of professional life.
