Former NFL All-Pro Linebacker Aldon Smith Dies at 36
Former NFL defensive end and All-Pro linebacker Aldon Smith, who played for the 49ers, Raiders, and Cowboys, has died at the age of 36.
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Aldon Smith, a gifted former NFL defensive end who played for the San Francisco 49ers, Oakland Raiders, and Dallas Cowboys, has passed away at the age of 36. His death occurred on June 13, 2026, and he was pronounced deceased at a San Jose hospital. The Santa Clara County Office of the Medical Examiner is currently investigating the cause and manner of his passing, which has not yet been publicly disclosed.
Smith was widely recognized for his immense talent on the field, particularly during his early career with the 49ers. He earned First-Team All-Pro honors and a Pro Bowl selection in 2012, setting a franchise record for sacks in a single season. However, his professional journey was also significantly impacted by a series of off-field legal troubles and suspensions related to substance abuse and personal conduct policies, which ultimately led to an early end to his promising career.
What each outlet emphasizes
- BBC: Reporting the death of former NFL defensive end Aldon Smith at 36.
- AP: Announcing the 49ers mourning the sudden death of former All-Pro linebacker Aldon Smith at 36.
Read it at the source
wikipedia.org ↗ sfgate.com ↗ indiatimes.com ↗ theguardian.com ↗ 49ers.com ↗