Die San Fracisco 49ers entließen gestern ihren Linebacker Aldon Smith, nachdem dieser tags zuvor in Santa Clara verhaftet wurde.
This organization has tried very hard to help Aldon fight his issues,[…] Although he is no longer a member of this team, our support and concern for him will continue. – 49ers Statement
Headcoach Jim Tomsula zeigte sich sichtlich zerknirscht und nannte den gestrigen Tag einen „traurigen Tag“.
I understand the platform that we are on. I understand where this goes in the news. And what I would like to say is if one person out there reads this, and you’re struggling, get help. Go get it. You’re worth it. You’re worth it. There’s value in every human being. Get the help. You don’t have to walk alone. Find it. It’s there. And although Aldon will not be playing football here, we will be supporting him. He will not be alone.
Smith wurde Donnerstag Nacht wegen Fahrerflucht, DUI und Vandalismus verhaftet. Laut einer Pressemeldung der Polizei habe Smith „lediglich“ ein Auto in seiner Luxusappartment Nachbarschaft beschädigt und sei danach verschwunden. Nach seiner Heimkehr wurde er verhaftet. Smith bestreitet den Vorwurf des DUI.
Simple as this: Justice will be served, the truth will come out, there’s no DUI. I’m sorry for anybody I let down, I’m sorry for the way this whole thing … I need to speak and I want everybody to understand, this wasn’t a DUI, the situation I had could have been handled differently and I apologize for everybody I did let down and I apologize for how it all played out. But as far as everything is concerned, it will work out the way it’s supposed to work out. That’s all. – Aldon Smith am Tag nach der Verhaftung
Die turbulente Offseason bei den 49ers ging somit ungebremst weiter. Es gingen in dieser Offseason ja bereits Willis, Borland, Anthony Davis, Frank Gore, Michael Crabtree, Justin Smith und einige andere.
