San Francisco 49ers: Aldon Smith Returns to Practice After Arrest

Sep 8, 2013; San Francisco, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers linebacker Aldon Smith (99) celebrates after forcing a quarterback fumble against the Green Bay Packers during the first quarter at Candlestick Park. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports

Update:  Just a few hours after being arrested on Friday morning, Aldon Smith posted bail and was released for the Santa Clara County jail.  Soon after the debacle, Smith was seen at practice during the team’s practice in the afternoon.  His court date is set for November 4th at 9am at the Santa Clara County Superior Court.  That day also happens to be during the 49ers’ bye week.

According to CSNBayArea.com 49ers All-Pro outside linebacker Aldon Smith has been arrested under suspicion of driving under the influence as well as the possession of marijuana.

Smith was the driver in a solo vehicle crash around 7am in the Silver Creek area, San Jose Police Sgt. Heather Randol said.  When the officers arrived he was subject to a series of tests including a breath sample.  There were also marijuana and pills found in his car during the subsequent search.

It was also reported by the Mercury News that Smith blew a .15 during his breathalyzer test.

They conducted an investigation and determined he was under the influence,” Randol said.  Matt Barrows also tweeted that his bail was set at $5,250, according to DOC records.

The 49ers have issued a statement on the matter as well:

“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.”

This is not his first run in with the law, Smith was named in in a lawsuit earlier this month claiming he and former 49er teammate Delanie Walker discharged firearms while intoxicated during a party at Smith’s house in 2012 where the star defensive end was stabbed.

And at this point Smith could even be suspended by the NFL for violating for substance abuse and alcohol-related incidents.  He had a similar charge for DUI in Miami in January 2012, but was able to get the charges reduced.  This time he may not be so lucky.

According to NFLPA documents for alcohol-related incidents ‘discipline for a second or subsequent offense is likely to be a suspension, the duration of which may escalate for repeat offenses.’

That would have a huge impact a defense which relies heavily on getting a pass rush with just four guys.  With out their top pass rusher the defense is just not the same.  Also, remember the 49ers traded away two very formidable outside linebackers in Parys Haralson and Cam Johnson during the preseason for what seemed like pennies on the dollar.