Aldon Smith dead at 36: What we know about former 49ers DL's sudden passing

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On Saturday, former San Francisco 49ers DL/LB Aldon Smith passed away at the age of 36, the team shared in a statement.

Smith was originally drafted by San Francisco with the seventh overall selection in the 2011 NFL Draft. During his career with the 49ers, he appeared in 50 games and led the team in sacks during his rookie season with 14.0.

He attended the University of Missouri, where he was a First-Team All-Big 12 selection and the recipient of Missouri's Defensive Lineman of the Year Award in 2010.

Here's the latest on the former San Francisco star after his sudden passing, and some tributes from around the NFL world.

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Aldon Smith dead at 36

Smith tragically passed away on Saturday, the San Francisco 49ers announced in a statement. Smith was only 36 at the time of his passing.

"We are devastated by the sudden and tragic passing of Aldon Smith. Aldon's undeniable talent and sheer dominance on the field were on display from the moment he joined our organization, having recorded one of the best rookie seasons the National Football League has seen," the 49ers said in their statement.

"Beyond his excellence as a player, Aldon will be remembered for his infectious smile that lit up every room he walked into. Our entire organization sends its deepest condolences to the Smith family and all who knew and loved Aldon."

At the moment, Smith's cause of death has yet to be revealed.

Updates will follow as more information is received.

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Aldon Smith tributes

Here are some tributes remembering the defensive lineman:

— San Francisco 49ers (@49ers) June 13, 2026

What???? At Just 36 years old man?? This is heartbreaking.

I didn’t know him personally, but one of the most talented young Pass Rushers in NFL history. He still holds the record for most sacks in a players first 2 seasons. Heartbreaking on every level 💔 https://t.co/LrqZsJl7Ub

— Emmanuel Acho (@EmmanuelAcho) June 13, 2026

Just so incredibly tragic. I pray his soul can find peace. https://t.co/0Ih6HOJdZH

— JennaLaineESPN (@JennaLaineESPN) June 13, 2026

😢 https://t.co/XoiAoQS1IC

— Joe Schad (@schadjoe) June 13, 2026

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