Aldon Smith: Latest News, Rumors and Speculation on Free-Agent LB

Aldon Smith has a history of off-field issues and was recently released by the San Francisco 49ers, but some NFL teams are interested in the pass-rusher.

Continue for updates.

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Giants Among 'At Least' 3 Teams Interested in Smith

Monday, Aug. 10

Jason Cole of Bleacher Report weighed in on the market for Smith following his release from the 49ers:

On Aug. 9, Jordan Schultz of the Huffington Post and Bleacher Report tweeted, "There is interest in Aldon Smith from several NFL teams, notably NY Giants. But what's really important is a life spiraling out of control."

Schultz provided context for the Giants news:

Smith's talent on the field cannot be questioned. He was a first-round pick in the 2011 draft and earned his way to a first-team All-Pro selection in 2012. He boasts 44 career sacks in a mere 50 games and is an absolute terror for opposing offensive lines because of his athleticism and ability to explode around the edge.

However, the 49ers released him Aug. 7 following an arrest "on suspicion of hit-and-run, driving under the influence and vandalism," according to Sports Illustrated. It was Smith’s fifth arrest since being drafted and the third for drunk driving issues.

The fact that San Francisco released him despite the retirements of linebackers Patrick Willis and Chris Borland this offseason is a testament to the off-field concerns that surround Smith.

From New York’s perspective, it was fourth in the league in 2014 with 47 sacks. The Giants often win games on defense because of their ability to generate a pass rush up front and take pressure off the secondary, and Smith would help them do that.

What’s more, Jason Pierre-Paul had his right index finger amputated this offseason after a fireworks incident, and he racked up 12.5 sacks last season. His potential absence explains New York’s interest in Smith.

Still, as Schultz mentioned, the most important thing with Smith is that he gets his life together off the field.