Aldon Smith recently passed away at the age of 36. His cause of death hasn't been released. The San Francisco 49ers defensive end has struggled with mental health issues for most of his life. In a recently surfaced video, Smith can be seen speaking candidly about his situation just days before his passing.
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The video shows Smith sitting in a barber's chair when he's asked how he's doing.
Smith responds by telling the barber that he's "had better days," before closing down the conversation. Further into the video, the defensive end admits that he's working through something that he's "had better days," per TMZ.
The rest of the conversation remains light-hearted, with Smith avoiding anything too deep. Nevertheless, it's given NFL fans a deeper insight into his situation and where his head was at in the days before his untimely death.
Smith's conversation with his barber is one of the last times he was seen in public. The clip has gone viral online, resonating with the fanbase, while also generating significant talk regarding the importance of mental health.
The San Francisco 49ers Issued a Statement Following Aldon Smith's Death
Following Smith's death, the San Francisco 49ers issued a statement.
We are devastated by the sudden and tragic passing of Aldon Smith.
"Aldon's undeniable talent and sheer dominance on the field were on display from the moment he joined our organization, having recorded one of the best rookie seasons the National Football League has seen," the statement said. "Beyond his excellence as a player, Aldon will be remembered for his infectious smile that lit up every room he walked into. Our entire organization sends its deepest condolences to the Smith family and all who knew and loved."
Smith spent six seasons in the NFL, making the Pro Bowl team and All-Pro in 2012. In total, he suited up for 75 regular-season games, starting 53 of them. He recorded 228 combined tackles, along with 103 quarterback hits.
Smith's last season in the NFL came in 2020, when he suited up for the Dallas Cowboys.
No further information regarding Smith's death or his impending funeral has been made public.
