Aldon Smith Injury: Updates on 49ers LB's Status and Recovery

In a game where the health of every starter is crucial, the San Francisco 49ers were temporarily without linebacker Aldon Smith due to cramping in the third quarter of the NFC Wild Card Round against the Green Bay Packers.   

Matt Maiocco of CSN Bay Area reported the news via Twitter during the game:

Maiocco also reported the news when Smith returned to the field shortly afterward:

It's unknown exactly what the cause of the injury was. However, with the game being played at Lambeau Field in sub-freezing temperatures, according to The Weather Channel, it's likely the cold conditions are playing a factor in the situation.

Matt Barrows of The Sacramento Bee points out that cramping is a common occurrence in cold weather games:

Smith had already made his mark during the game with a half sack and three total tackles against the Packers. Matt Miller of Bleacher Report notes that Smith and fellow defender Ahmad Brooks looked better than their opponent early on:

Smith is a crucial part of the 49ers defense despite his troubles earlier in the season. In just 11 regular-season games, Smith finished with 34 tackles, 8.5 sacks and 12.5 tackles for loss. He was the team's defensive MVP during the 2012 season after recording 19.5 sacks.

With Smith returning to the game, it appears the injury has subsided for now. But if there are more updates to report, they will be added to this story.