The San Francisco 49ers are going to have to play their first nine games of the season this year without linebacker Aldon Smith.
The NFL announced today that Smith was being suspended for nine games after violating the league’s personal conduct policies on multiple occasions. According to ESPN, Smith was suspended four games for violating the league’s substance-abuse police and another five games for violating the personal conduct policy.
Smith was arrested in 2013 for a DUI and three counts of possessing illegal firearms. It was his second DUI since entering the league since 2011. In July, Smith was sentenced to 11 days of work release in Santa Clara County.
The 49ers said that they have been planning for Aldon Smith’s suspension since his arrest in 2013.
49ers general manager Trent Baalke said: “Our organization has known this decision would come and we have prepared for it. Aldon has taken responsibility for his actions and has continued to show growth personally and professionally. We will continue to support him, but it is time to put this matter behind us and focus on the season ahead.”
The 49ers may have prepared for Aldon Smith’s suspension but he’ll still be hard to replace. Smith has had 42 sacks in his last 43 regular season games.
Aldon Smith got hit for 9 gms? good Lord..
— The Ancient Hawaiian (@the_rANT_) August 29, 2014
Just what Aldon Smith needed, more time off the field to get himself into trouble.
— Ryan Wolstat (@WolstatSun) August 29, 2014
I think Sf Misses Playoffs Tough Division +Denver/Bears bowman injury and No aldon smith
— E (@Yankee_Eric) August 29, 2014
In addition to hurting the 49ers playoff chances, Aldon Smith’s suspension will also hurt his wallet. ESPN reports that Smith’s suspension will cost him more than $1 million.
[Image via wikipedia]
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