Aldon Smith: 49ers' Twice-Snubbed Defensive Stud Will Dominate NFL in 2012

San Francisco 49ers rookie sensation and pass-rusher extraordinaire Aldon Smith was snubbed by the NFL twice in 2011, a fact that will propel him to even greater heights in 2012.

Smith was first snubbed when he wasn't even an option on the Pro Bowl voting ballot. That was insult enough, but he still had a chance to be voted onto the team by the coaches and players. Then, when the final results came, Smith was still off the team, a move that baffles me.

As if that didn't sting enough, Smith was then snubbed for the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year award yesterday, when the league gave the prestigious award to fellow rookie sensation Von Miller.

I'm not trying to say Miller doesn't deserve the award. I think it was a toss-up between him and Smith. What I'm saying is that Smith deserved some national recognition for the amazing season he had, and the fact that he was snubbed on all fronts will drive him to become even better in 2012.   

Smith only played in about half of the 49ers defensive snaps in 2011. Still, he managed to haul in 14 sacks, good for fifth place in the NFL and a half sack away from tying Javon Kearse's all-time NFL rookie record. 

There is no doubt in my mind that Smith will be the 49ers' full-time starting outside linebacker next year. Ahmad Brooks might not even be back with the team, as he is a free agent.

Smith will also handle the defensive end position he held in 2011 on passing downs when the 49ers switch into their nickel package. In the end, he's going to get twice as many opportunities to wear down his opponents and get to the quarterback.

That is a scary thought for opposing offensive lines. 

It doesn't seem like a stretch to predict a Jared Allen-type season from Smith next year, and I'm guessing he'll rack up at least 18 sacks.

Players using snubs, perceived or otherwise, to motivate them to even greater heights isn't a new concept in the NFL. Just ask Tom Brady. Nobody even thought him worthy enough to be anything more than a dummy quarterback at the NFL draft combine when he was coming out of college.

Smith is no different than any other man. Despite what he might say to the media, you can be sure that he will be thinking all winter long about the lack of respect and attention he and his team received for their exceptional performances in 2011. 

It will only drive him to become even more beastly and dynamic in 2012, and I can't wait to feast my eyes on the results of his focus next year.

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