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Former 49ers DE Aldon Smith Dies at 36

6/14/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Former defensive end Aldon Smith died at age 36 on June 13, 2026, in the Bay Area.
The San Francisco 49ers and Oakland Raiders issued statements expressing devastation and deep sadness over Smith’s death.
Smith finished his career with 44 sacks for the 49ers, ranking 11th in franchise history.
After retiring in 2023, he launched the “I.M. Loading” mentorship program and mentored rookie classes for the Jaguars and Las Vegas Raiders in 2024.

History

Historical Context

In 1995 the NFL and NFL Players Association introduced the Rookie Premiere, a multi-day event teaching new players financial and career planning—a precursor to later transition services. Today, Aldon Smith’s 2026 death and his “I.M. Loading” mentorship revive that legacy, as the league and his former 49ers and Raiders clubs reaffirm support for retirees, who number over 2,000 active players.

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Story summary

Former defensive end Aldon Smith died at age 36 on June 13, 2026, in the Bay Area.
The San Francisco 49ers and Oakland Raiders issued statements expressing devastation and deep sadness over Smith’s death.
Smith finished his career with 44 sacks for the 49ers, ranking 11th in franchise history.
After retiring in 2023, he launched the “I.M. Loading” mentorship program and mentored rookie classes for the Jaguars and Las Vegas Raiders in 2024.

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