49ers’ Aldon Smith issues statement on suspension
By Hayden Kane
This week the suspension was finally announced for San Francisco 49ers’ lineback Aldon Smith. One of the most talented pass rushers in the entire NFL, Smith was suspended for nine games for violating both the league’s substance abuse and personal conduct policy.
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With the suspension official, Smith issued a statement on Saturday morning (courtesy of Albert Breer of NFL.com):
"“I apologize to my teammates, coaches, the entire 49ers organization and 49ers fans for not being able to contribute on the field for the next several weeks. Over the last year, I have learned a lot and I’m working hard to grow from my experiences. I want to thank my family and friends, my teammates, my union and the 49ers for supporting me during this process. I will be at work daily to participate in all permitted work activities, and to support my teammates, just as they have supported me.”"
Fans can be awfully jaded about NFL players who get themselves into trouble, especially those who are repeat offenders. It is worth remembering at this point that Smith is still just 24 years old, with plenty of time to turn things around. He certainly deserves the chance to prove that he is ready to make good on this second chance.
With this suspension now officially in place and all parties set to move on, hopefully Smith can get his personal life back on track so that he can get back to business of chasing down opposing quarterbacks.
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