Aldon Smith was the 7th overall selection of the 2011 NFL Draft. He was a prolific pass rusher for the early part of his career. After troubles with the law and suspension from the NFL, Aldon Smith has disappeared from the football world. According to Jay Glazer, Smith is preparing for a comeback and he is sober. Barring reinstatement, Aldon Smith could be worth a shot for the New York Jets.Â
Aldon Smith Was REALLY Good
Aldon Smith was a prolific pass rusher for the bulk of his shortened career. In his rookie season, Aldon put up BIG numbers. Smith had 37 tackles, 13 TFLs, 14.0 Sacks, 4 PDs, 2 FF & 1 FR. His game wrecking ability was prominent early and high expectations were exceeded in year 2. Aldon Smith was both an All-Star and a member of the First All-Pro Team in 2012. Smith had 66 tackles, 19.5 Sacks, 18 TFLs, 1 PD, 3 FF, & 1 INT. Smith lit up the stat sheet and was a top defensive player in all of football. However his off the field issues began to be an issue in 2013. After 4.5 sacks in his first 3 games, Smith was arrested for driving under the influence and marijuana possession. Smith went through rehabilitation and returned after missing 5 games. He was in a limited role and ultimately finished the season strong when his role grew back to regular size. He finished the season with 34 tackles, 11 TFLs, 8.5 Sacks, 1 FF & 1 FR. Despite the limited time, his performance was impressive especially after battling back from drug issues. He seemed like a success story but issues worsened. Smith has suspended nine games for substance abuse policy violations. Upon reinstatement, he had 2.0 Sacks, 15 tackles and 4 TFLs. He had a limited role and after more legal issues in the offseason, he was released. After a short and unimpressive run with Oakland, his run came to an end when he has suspended again and at this time has not received reinstatement.
The Jets Could Use Him
According to Jay Glazer Smith is clean and ready to return. The New York Jets are in a situation where they should take as many fliers on inexpensive pass rush solutions as possible. Smith would fit into a Gregg Williams defense and likely have a lot of success. Having only played a few seasons and only being 30, Smith is still in his athletic prime. The Jets could get him on a solid deal and pair him with a free agent acquisition and Tarell Basham and begin to build a solid edge rush. This could be a pipe dream but Aldon Smith would be a great flier for the Jets to take.