The family of former NFL linebacker Aldon Smith will donate his brain to Boston University’s CTE Center following his sudden death at age 36.
Attorneys representing the family confirmed they have taken steps to have medical experts examine Smith’s brain for chronic traumatic encephalopathy and other trauma-related damage. The legal team stated the investigation aims to clarify the circumstances of his passing.
Smith was found unresponsive in a vehicle in San Jose, California. Hours earlier, he had spontaneously dropped off ten pizzas at a local charity feeding the homeless. A friend stated Smith was discovered slumped over in the passenger seat after a brief stop.
Selected seventh overall in the 2011 NFL Draft, Smith made an immediate impact. He recorded 14 sacks as a rookie and set a 49ers franchise record the following season with 19.5 sacks. His 30 career sacks in just 27 games made him the fastest player in league history to reach that milestone.
His career was repeatedly derailed by suspensions and legal issues, including DUI arrests. After missing four full seasons, Smith returned to play a full season for the Dallas Cowboys in 2020. He finished his career with 52.5 sacks in 75 games.