ESPN’s Ed Werder, citing two league sources, is reporting that the reason why 49ers OLB Aldon Smith did not have his nine-game suspension reduced was because he did not fulfill the obligations regarding his counseling.
Smith did, however, do more than the required amount of community service.
Adam Schefter reports that by the end of the season, Smith will end up paying the 49ers for the ability to play once all of his fines have been paid out.
49ers LB Aldon Smith might be first player to not only not be paid during season but to pay to play – $661,000. pic.twitter.com/tFMg1LWOBH
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) November 9, 2014
There was some talk Smith could be allowed to return earlier than his nine-week suspension for good behavior, but it became apparent that he would end up serving the full suspension earlier in the week.
Smith will be a welcomed addition for a 49ers’ defense that has been dealing with a number of injuries this season.
As of now, San Francisco ranks No. 15 in points per game with 22.3. They have, however, done a pretty good job of limiting yards to opposing offenses.
Smith, 25, still has two years remaining on his contract after San Francisco picked up his fifth-year option several months ago. It will be interesting to see if he’s capable of stepping in and returning to his previous form.
Last year, Smith recorded 34 tackles and 8.5 sacks over the course of 11 games.
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