Aldon Smith discusses personal struggles in interview before his death
CBS NFL • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 15, 2026, 6:13 PM
Last updated Jun 15, 2026
Former NFL All-Pro Aldon Smith, who passed away at age 36, reflected on his career and personal challenges in a recent interview. Released on June 8, just days prior to his death, the conversation with Tee Maultsby covered his journey in the NFL, legal issues, and attempts at sobriety. Smith's career was marked by outstanding season achievements but marred by legal troubles and multiple suspensions, with a major incident occurring in 2013. He portrayed a complex emotional state as he expressed gratitude yet admitted to feeling overwhelmed by his circumstances. Amid his struggles, he had returned to the Bay Area, where he began his NFL career with the San Francisco 49ers.
- •Aldon Smith passed away over the weekend at age 36.
- •Smith recorded 33.5 sacks in his first two NFL seasons.
- •He was interviewed by Tee Maultsby just days before his death.
- •Legal issues significantly interrupted his football career.
- •Smith expressed gratitude but acknowledged ongoing personal struggles.
- 6:13 PMCBS NFL — Aldon Smith opened up about personal struggles in interview released before his death
- 4:08 PMUSA Today — Aldon Smith in interview published days before death: 'Definitely had better days' - USA Today
"The former 49ers All-Pro discussed his NFL career, legal troubles, sobriety and post-football life in a three-part conversation released days before he died at age 36
"Aldon Smith, an All-Pro with the San Francisco 49ers, was found unresponsive in his car at the age of 36.
Sources
External links- CBS NFLJun 15, 2026, 6:13 PMAldon Smith opened up about personal struggles in interview released before his death
The former 49ers All-Pro discussed his NFL career, legal troubles, sobriety and post-football life in a three-part conversation released days before he died at age 36
- USA TodayJun 15, 2026, 4:08 PMAldon Smith in interview published days before death: 'Definitely had better days' - USA Today
Aldon Smith, an All-Pro with the San Francisco 49ers, was found unresponsive in his car at the age of 36.
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