Raiders GM Reggie McKenzie said that he enjoys how OLB/DE Aldon Smith has fit with the team, and that he is in their “long-term plans” after this season, per Scott Bair of CSN Bay Area.
It is worth mentioning that Smith has a Nov. 4 court date for three misdemeanor charges, which include: DUI with a prior conviction, hit-and-run with property damage and vandalism.
Though the 49ers signed Smith’s fifth-year option and reworked his contract during the offseason, a third DUI was enough to convince the franchise to release him.
Regardless of the the vast amount of off-the-field issues that follows Smith, the Raiders appear comfortable enough to give him a long term deal.
Jason Cole of B/R wrote back in September that Smith’s decision to sign with the Raiders was impacted by his preference to remain in the Bay Area and remain close to his support network, so it is clear to see that Smith has a large preference to remain in Oakland.
Interesting enough, a source told Cole that Smith won’t face charges from his most recent off-the-field issue. Even so, Cole expects the NFL to hand down some sort of punishment, but it remains to be seen what kind of discipline he’ll receive now nearing the halfway mark of the 2015 season.
Smith, 26,was signed to a one-year deal that could reach up to $8 million through incentives. His contract carries a base value of $1 million to go along with $5 million in active roster bonuses and another $2 million in sack-based incentives.
In 2015, Smith has gathered 18 total tackles, 1.5 sacks, and three pass defenses. Pro Football Focus currently rates Smith as the No. 14 overall outside linebacker in a 3-4 set.
We will have more information regarding Smith and the Raiders as the news becomes available.
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