Aldon Smith Released by 49ers: Latest Details, Comments and Reaction

The San Francisco 49ers have parted ways with Aldon Smith following the linebacker's latest run-in with the law.

ESPN's Jim Trotter first reported the news while Rand Getlin of NFL Network provided the team's official statement:

49ers head coach Jim Tomsula commented on Smith's release, per Cam Inman of the Bay Area News Group:

Smith was arrested Thursday night in Santa Clara, California, on charges of hit and run, driving under the influence and vandalism, according to ESPN. The report notes it's the third time Smith has been arrested on suspicion of drunken driving since he was drafted in 2011.

Bleacher Report's Mike Freeman supplied speculation from a NFL GM that Smith could be facing a 12-game suspension after his most recent run-in.

The 25-year-old Missouri product also found himself in the negative spotlight last April. He allegedly made a bomb threat after being selected for additional screening Los Angeles International Airport, but no charges were filed in the case, per Henry K. Lee of the San Francisco Chronicle.

The 49ers gave Smith many opportunities to work through the problems in his personal life and reboot his promising football career. The edge rusher racked up a 42 sacks across his first three seasons, making him one of the NFL's top younger defenders.

He received a nine-game suspension before the start of last season for violating the league's policy on personal conduct and substances of abuse. His impact dropped off considerably once he returned to field, as he registered just 15 combined tackles and two sacks in seven games.

Smith joins a list of notable 49ers defenders who won't return in 2015 that also includes Patrick Willis, Chris Borland and Justin Smith, who all retired. Perrish Cox and Chris Culliver left via free agency.

Now that he's been released, the focus shifts toward getting him the help he needs to hopefully make a triumphant return to the league in the future.

Damien Woody of ESPN expressed his concern for Smith:

Another former player, Chad Johnson, also sent along positive vibes:

It's a difficult situation for the 49ers. The organization has supported Smith throughout the process, but each passing issue made it tougher to justify keeping him on the roster. They will move forward with Ahmad Brooks and Aaron Lynch holding down the outside linebacker spots.