33.5 Sacks in 32 Games: Aldon Smith's Tragic End at 36 Shocks the League

Okay, 12s, we just got some absolutely heartbreaking news out of the NFL. Former defensive end Aldon Smith, a guy who briefly wore our beloved Seahawks colors, has passed away at the age of 36. Man, this one stings, not just for his family and friends, but for anyone who watched him absolutely dominate the game early in his career. It's a reminder of how quickly life can change, and how much raw talent we saw flash across the gridiron.

A Rocket Start, Then a Hard Fall

Smith was a seventh overall pick in 2011, and let me tell you, he came into the league like a wrecking ball. Seriously, the guy put up 33.5 sacks in his first 32 regular-season games. Think about that for a second. That's just insane production, a truly dominant pass rusher right out of the gate. He was second for defensive rookie of the year in 2011, then went first-team All-Pro and a Pro Bowler in 2012. He even started Super Bowl XLVII with the 49ers. The talent was undeniable, the sheer dominance on the field was incredible to watch. The 49ers even said he had "one of the best rookie seasons the National Football League has seen."

Brief Stop in the Emerald City

But like so many stories in sports and life, things got complicated. Smith's career was unfortunately marred by off-field issues. He served a nine-game suspension in 2014 for violating the league's substance abuse policy. After a DUI arrest in August 2015, the 49ers released him. He played nine games with seven starts for the Raiders that season before being suspended indefinitely by the league after Week 10. He missed all of 2016 and 2017. The Raiders eventually released him in 2018 after an arrest for domestic violence. He did make a comeback with the Cowboys in 2020, starting all 16 games and grabbing 5.0 sacks. And that's where our paths crossed, however briefly. The Seahawks signed him during the 2021 offseason, giving him a shot in the Emerald City, but he was released that August. It's tough to see such a talented player's career take such a turn, and now, for it to end so tragically. The 49ers released a statement, saying they were "devastated by the sudden and tragic passing" and remembering "Aldon's undeniable talent and sheer dominance on the field" and his "infectious smile that lit up every room he walked into." Our deepest condolences go out to Smith's family, friends, and everyone who knew and loved him. It's a somber day for the NFL family, and for those of us who remember the incredible player he was.

This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.