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Aldon Smith, 36, Dies; Brain Sent for CTE Test

6/21/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Aldon Smith, former NFL defensive lineman, died at age 36 on Saturday in the San Francisco Bay Area.
His family will send his brain to Boston University’s CTE Center for chronic traumatic encephalopathy testing.
The San Francisco 49ers confirmed his death and expressed devastation and condolences.
Smith, a 2011 seventh-overall pick, set a franchise record with 19.5 sacks in 2012 and earned Pro Bowl and All-Pro honors.

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Story summary

Aldon Smith, former NFL defensive lineman, died at age 36 on Saturday in the San Francisco Bay Area.
His family will send his brain to Boston University’s CTE Center for chronic traumatic encephalopathy testing.
The San Francisco 49ers confirmed his death and expressed devastation and condolences.
Smith, a 2011 seventh-overall pick, set a franchise record with 19.5 sacks in 2012 and earned Pro Bowl and All-Pro honors.