Former NFL defensive end Aldon Smith passed away under mysterious circumstances on Saturday. He was found unresponsive in his car by a friend after delivering food to a homeless shelter. Good Samaritan Hospital in San Jose pronounced him dead later on.
On Monday, TMZ released a video of Smith before his death. He had made an appearance on celebrity barber Tee Maultsby’s YouTube channel. The retired defensive end had spoken about some struggles in his life while admitting to having seen “better days.”
“I’ve definitely had better days,” Smith said, before refusing to speak about it in detail. “It’s along the lines of something I think I’ve been dealing with my whole life, and I’m just struggling with accepting how it’s playing out right now. Sounds like a bunch of gibberish.”
After making these comments, Aldon Smith claimed that he was grateful despite having a tough week.
Smith played for Missouri during his collegiate days. The San Francisco 49ers drafted him with the No. 7 pick in 2011. However, the defensive end had a lot of off-field issues. In 2015, the team decided to release him following his third DUI arrest.
Smith then joined the Raiders before being released in 2018 following an alleged domestic violence case. He then went on to spend one season each with the Cowboys and the Seahawks. In Oct. 22023, he was released after a year in jail following a felony charge. That is when he decided to hang up his cleats.
49ers release statement on Aldon Smith’s death
After Aldon Smith’s death, the San Francisco 49ers released a statement expressing their grief. They offered their condolences to his family and friends, but did not highlight the cause of his passing.
“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.”
Aldon Smith played in 75 games during his stint in the NFL. He recorded 228 tackles, 52.5 sacks and 56 tackles for loss. The former defensive end was honored as a First-Team All-Pro in 2012.
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