Former Mizzou and NFL standout Aldon Smith has passed away at age 36, confirmed by the San Francisco 49ers who drafted him in 2011. His former coach, Gary Pinkel, expressed deep sorrow on social media, highlighting Smith’s exceptional talent and good character. Pinkel noted that Smith's loss leaves a significant void in the Mizzou community, remembering him as a competitive player who brought joy to the game. Smith was recognized for his outstanding performance at Mizzou and had an impressive start in the NFL with 33.5 sacks in his first two seasons.

By the Numbers
  • Aldon Smith was drafted No. 7 overall by the San Francisco 49ers in the 2011 NFL Draft.
  • He recorded 33.5 sacks in his first two NFL seasons.
Yes, But

Despite his early success in the NFL, Smith’s life and career were later marred by legal and personal troubles, highlighting the complex nature of his legacy.

State of Play
  • The football community is mourning the loss of Aldon Smith, reflecting on his impact at both the college and professional levels.
  • Tributes from former teammates, coaches, and fans are flooding in, honoring his contributions and character.
What's Next

Memorials and tributes are expected to continue as the community comes together to celebrate Smith's life and legacy, focusing on his influence on young athletes.

Bottom Line

Aldon Smith’s passing reminds us of the fragility of life and the importance of mental health and support systems for athletes. His legacy will continue to resonate, both for his remarkable talent and the struggles he faced.