Aldon Smith, former Raytown and Missouri football star, dies at 36
By Nick Sloan
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KANSAS CITY, Missouri (KMBC) — Former NFL and Raytown High School star Aldon Smith has died at the age of 36.
The San Francisco 49ers confirmed the news early Saturday evening.
The team said it was “devastated by the sudden and tragic passing” of Smith, who emerged as one of the NFL’s most dominant young pass rushers after being selected seventh overall in the 2011 NFL Draft.
No cause of death was released.
Before reaching the NFL, Smith starred at Raytown High School in the Kansas City area and went on to play for the University of Missouri.
He earned first-team All-Big 12 honors and was named Missouri’s Defensive Lineman of the Year in 2010.
“We are devastated by the sudden and tragic passing of Aldon Smith,” the 49ers said in a statement. “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.”
Smith played for the 49ers, the Oakland Raiders and Dallas Cowboys during his 75-game career.
“The Raiders Family is deeply saddened to learn of the loss of Aldon Smith, who passed away at the age of 36,” the Raiders said in a statement. “Aldon played nine games for the Raiders in 2015 as part of a career in which he posted a remarkable 52.5 sacks in six active seasons. Aldon proudly wore the Silver and Black, was respected by his teammates and will be missed dearly. The thoughts and prayers of the entire Raider Nation are with Aldon’s family at this time.”
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