On Saturday, the San Francisco 49ers shared the news of their former defensive end and linebacker, Aldon Smith’s passing at just 36 years. ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that Smith’s family is investigating the cause of the untimely demise. 

“The family of Aldon Smith has decided to send his brain to medical experts in Boston to see if CTE played a role in the former NFL defensive lineman’s death,” posted Schefter on his Instagram account. 

Aldon Smith’s family also released a statement, but didn’t reveal the exact cause of his passing. However, they announced that they would like an investigation to see if chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) played a role.

“As with anyone who died so suddenly at such a young age, we understand that there is a great deal of interest in and speculation about Aldon Smith’s passing, and we intend to get to the bottom of it,” shared the family through attorneys Harry Daniels, Bakari Sellers and Wayne Kendall.

The statement released on Tuesday further said, “To that end, we have taken a number of steps, including sending his brain to Boston, where medical experts will examine for CTE as well as other damage caused by years of concussions and additional trauma.”

Per Bailey Richards of People, a study published in September 2024 found that approximately 34% of former professional football players believe they have CTE, as they faced health problems associated with it.

The San Francisco 49ers, who drafted him in 2011 and had him around for four years, paid tribute to Smith and called him someone with “undeniable talent” and “sheer dominance.”

The 49ers concluded their statement saying that, beyond his excellence as a player, Smith will fondly be remembered for his “infectious smile”.

The news of Smith’s sudden passing deeply saddened NFL fans, who quickly took to social media to pay their respects and honor his legacy.

Fans Pay Tribute to Former NFL Player, Aldon Smith 

Following the news of Aldon Smith’s passing, fans took to sharing their tribute under Schefter’s Instagram post. 

“Aldon was so talented, so heartbreaking,” commended one fan. 

During the 2011 and 2012 seasons with the 49ers, Smith reached 30 career sacks in just 27 games and became the fastest player in NFL history to reach that milestone and break a record previously held by Hall of Famer Reggie White. 

Another fan commented, “This is so heartbreaking.”

Per Stacey Mickles of Touchdown Wire, Smith spent his last day delivering pizzas to the homeless. Soon after, his friend found him unresponsive in his truck.

“Heartbreaking and the last thing he did was deliver food to a homeless shelter. He was trying and he was hurting. So sad RIP,” commented another fan.

A section of fans remembered Smith’s family and wished them well.

“Wish the family all the best! We love you Aldon! Faithful to the Bay!” wrote a user. 

“May he rest in peace. My prayers for his family and loved ones,” added another user. 

Smith played with the 49ers from 2011 to 2014 and thereafter with the Raiders during the 2015 NFL season. He was suspended from the league for four seasons and made a comeback with the Dallas Cowboys in 2020, which was his final year in the NFL.

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Written by

Naomi Grace

Edited by

Shubhi Rathore