NFL preseason 2015: Players with most to prove

Dec 21, 2014; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Jets quarterback Geno Smith (7) reacts after an incomplete pass during the third quarter against the New England Patriots at MetLife Stadium. The Patriots defeated the Jets 17-16. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /

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Nov 16, 2014; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; San Francisco 49ers linebacker Aldon Smith (99) warms up before a game against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /

San Francisco 49ers – Aldon Smith

Why is he the pick?

No team lost more in the offseason than the 49ers. After watching head coach Jim Harbaugh walk out the door, general manager then had the horror show of Chris Borland, Justin Smith, Patrick Willis and Anthony Davis retiring, with Frank Gore, Mike Iupati and Michael Crabtree leaving in free agency. With that mass exodus of talent, San Francisco desperately needs Aldon Smith to step up.

Smith was suspended the first nine games of last season for multiple infractions and when he came back, the impact was minimal. Smith played in the final seven regular-season games and notched just 15 tackles and a pair of sacks. Over the past two years, the former first-round pick out of the University of Missouri has 10.5 sacks after racking up 33.5 in his first two seasons.

What is at stake?

Smith’s future with the 49ers. Smith is entering the final years of his rookie deal. If he does not rediscover his old form, it is more than likely that Smith suits up in another uniform next season. Smith has had trouble with the law and it is doubtful that San Francisco wants to risk more trouble for a few sacks.

Next: Seattle Seahawks

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