The cause of death was not given.
“We are devastated by the sudden and tragic passing of Aldon Smith,” the 49ers said in a statement. “Aldon’s undeniable talent and sheer dominance on the field were on display from the moment he joined our organization, having recorded one of the best rookie seasons the National Football League has seen. Beyond his excellence as a player, Aldon will be remembered for his infectious smile that lit up every room he walked into. Our entire organization sends its deepest condolences to the Smith family and all who knew and loved Aldon.”
Smith, who played for the San Francisco 49ers, the then-Oakland Raiders and Dallas Cowboys, was originally drafted seventh overall in the 2011 NFL draft by the Niners.
Smith finished second in Defensive Rookie of the Year honors after ending the 2011 season with 14 sacks and 27 quarterback hits. He had his best NFL season the following year, racking up 19.5 sacks, still a franchise single-season record, and 29 quarterback hits to earn Pro Bowl and All Pro honors.
His stardom was derailed by issues off the field, including 10 arrests in nine years. He served a nine-game suspension in 2014 for violating the league’s substance abuse policy. Smith was eventually released by the 49ers on. Aug. 7, 2015, after his third DUI arrest.