Former NFL star Aldon Smith dies at 36 amid CTE investigation

Former NFL linebacker Aldon Smith has died at the age of 36. His family has announced an investigation into the circumstances of his passing. No official cause of death has yet been confirmed. Smith was drafted seventh overall by the San Francisco 49ers in 2011. As a rookie, he recorded 14 sacks, followed by a franchise-record 19.5 sacks in 2012. His career, however, was marked by off-field struggles and multiple suspensions.

In the hours before his death, Smith delivered pizzas to a charity supporting homeless individuals. He was later found in a friend’s Chevy pickup truck. His brain is now being sent to medical experts in Boston for examination, including a check for chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a disease linked to repeated head injuries. Attorneys hired by Smith’s family are reviewing the details of his sudden death. The investigation continues as medical professionals assess potential links to CTE. Authorities have not yet released an official cause of death.