San Francisco 49ers all pro linebacker Aldon Smith was arrested for suspicion of DUI early Friday morning. He now faces a possible suspension from the league.
This was not Aldon Smith’s first offense. He was arrested on similar charges in January of 2012 in Miami Beach. More recently he was involved with gun possession charges with former teammate Delanie Walker.
Smith is an integral part of the 49ers aggressive defensive line. He finished last season with a franchise record 19.5 sacks. The 49ers released this statement, “The 49ers organization is aware of the matter involving Aldon Smith. As we continue to gather information regarding this situation, we will have no further comment.”
The NFL has chosen not to comment at this time. Smith’s continued off-field issues would fall under the league’s substance abuse policy though, meaning he could be suspended . The policy specifically states, “Discipline for a second or subsequent offense is likely to be a suspension, the duration of which may escalate for repeat offenses.”
Aldon Smith could not have gotten a DUI at a worse time. The 49ers play the Colts on Sunday. Indianapolis recently acquired Trent Richardson in a massive trade with the Cleveland Browns. If he suspended the Colts will have a huge advantage on the ground in the game.
If Smith is suspended, it is entirely his fault. NFL players need to hold themselves to a higher standard. Smith’s freak talent does not make him an exception to the rule. His continued off-field antics should be very concerning to the 49ers.
This season Aldon Smith has three and a half sacks. He has said his goal is 30. A possible suspension won’t make that goal any easier to reach. The current single season sack record is 22.5 by Michael Strahan.
Do you think Aldon Smith should be suspended by the NFL for his second DUI arrest in two seasons?
[image via Wikimedia Commons ]
