The San Francisco 49ers released Aldon Smith last week following his fifth arrest and third for DUI. Those are clearly very serious charges that reveal a pattern of poor choices that may impact Smith's short- and long-term future in the NFL.
However, Pro Football Focus is reporting that a handful of teams are still showing varying degrees in signing Smith, depending on how his legal situation plays out. If true, there's no denying Smith could be a difference maker as a pass-rusher. So, from a football standpoint, which landing spot makes sense? While there has been no official word between the two sides, PFF thinks the New York Giants could be logical fit.
"Another team that is suffering thanks to injury, the Giants need some help off the edge given the uncertainty around Jason Pierre-Paul's return from injury will be able to return to the team," Gordon McGuinness wrote. "They drafted Owamagbe Odighizuka out of UCLA, but his best work came against the run. Pierre-Paul had the 16th-best PRP score among 4-3 defensive ends a year ago, so someone like Smith would give the Giants a guaranteed threat off the edge in his absence."
For his career, Smith has recorded 44.0 sacks and five forced fumbles in 50 games. During his first two seasons in the league, in which he played in all 32 games possible, he recorded 33.5 total sacks.
Smith's NFL future is very clearly in doubt given his repeated mistakes. It's not even a given that he'll be cleared to play in the coming months. But assuming he is able to get back on the field at some point, he's still young (25) and talented enough to be an impact player for someone.
