As confirmed by the San Francisco 49ers, the NFL community has lost another gem on ‌June 13, 2026, at the age of 36, which has left the NFL universe mourning ‌the loss. 

Paying his tributes to his former teammate at the Missouri Tigers, former Detroit Lions quarterback Chase Daniel poured his heart out after the sudden demise of linebacker Aldon Smith. 

“Heartbroken to hear about Aldon Smith,” Daniel wrote on X. “I had the privilege of being his teammate at Mizzou, & there’s no question he was one of the most gifted football players I’ve ever been around…”

The Greenwood, Mississippi native was born on September 25, 1989, and attended his initial education at Raytown.

Later, he joined the University of Missouri (2008 to 2010) and laid the foundation for his professional football career. 

Daniel and Smith used to play for ‌Mizzou together, where Daniel was playing as the team’s QB and captain, whereas ‌Smith had just entered his redshirt year as a true freshman. 

During his time in Missouri, Smith recorded 60 tackles and 11 sacks and emerged as the elite pass-rushing force for the Tigers.

Smith was also named ‌the 2009 Big 12 Defensive Newcomer of the Year and earned Second-Team All-Big 12 honors.

They both played for one season together, with Daniel getting signed to the Washington Commanders (then Washington Redskins) and Smith being drafted in the 2011 NFL Draft as a seventh pick by the 49ers. 

For Smith, the struggle was pumped up by his battles with the law and judicial system, which also resulted in his suspension. 

Back in 2020, he finally rested his cleats after having a stint with the Dallas Cowboys.

Aldon Smith Has a Splendid Run in the League

Other than the multiple legal battles, Aldon Smith had a decent run in the league. 

He played four seasons for the San Francisco 49ers, where he made an appearance in all three consecutive NFC Championships. 

Smith appeared in 50 games for the 49ers and recorded 152 tackles. There, he also earned ‌First-Team All-Pro and Pro Bowl selections and finished with 44.0 sacks.

After getting fired from the 49ers, he joined the Oakland Raiders, where he played in nine games and registered 21 solo tackles, with eight being QB hits. 

In his last season in the league, he played for the Cowboys. He maintained his economy and played in 16 games, recording 31 solo tackles and scoring the league’s highest 78 yards covered in fumbles.  

His athleticism, pass-rushing ability, and role in the 49ers' championship runs ensured that those who watched him play will not forget his football legacy.

We stand together with the bereaved family. May the departed soul rest in peace.

Read more at the Detroit Lions Community!

Written by

Kunwar Yashaswee Chhaunker