On June 13, San Francisco 49ers announced the passing of their former member, Aldon Smith. The NFL star passed away suddenly at 36.
Aldon was not married. He was previously engaged to his ex-girlfriend, Shawna McKnight. In 2018, Smith proposed to Shawna McKnight during a dinner on Valentine’s Day. Just a month after they got engaged, Aldon was charged with alleged domestic violence in March, with Shawna McKnight as the victim. The couple finally parted ways in April. Shawna revealed in her interview that they were no longer together.
“Unfortunately through these circumstances Aldon and I are no longer together. Although it’s with a heavy heart, I truly wish him the best and pray he gets the help he needs. I will always have love for him, but at this point I’m simply the victim in this ongoing case.” Shawna said.
For those unaware, Shawna McKnight is a model and public figure. She featured as a Playboy cover model. Shawna gained fame mainly after she got involved with Aldon Smith.
Shawna moved on in her life after her separation. She got married and gave birth to her daughter, Aurora.
The San Francisco 49ers released a statement after Aldon Smith’s death
The 49ers gave tribute to Aldon with their latest social media post. They praised Smith’s talent and remembered how he recorded one of the best rookie seasons of NFL during his career.
“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. Beyond his excellence as a player, Aldon will be remembered for his infectious smile that lit up every room he walked into.”
It continued as:
“Our entire organization sends its deepest condolences to the Smith family and all who knew and loved Aldon.”
Aldon Jacarus Smith was an American professional football player in the NFL for six seasons. He played college football for the Missouri Tigers. Aldon was selected by the San Francisco 49ers with the 7th overall pick in the 2011 NFL Draft. Next year, Aldon was named a first-team All-Pro and selected for the Pro Bowl as an outside linebacker with the San Francisco 49ers. The late footballer also played as a defensive end for the Dallas Cowboys and Oakland Raiders.
As of this writing, Aldon Smith’s cause of death remains unknown.
Edited by Shatakshi Gupta