Free agent linebacker Aldon Smith is reportedly going to sign with the Oakland Raiders, and he is reportedly eligible to play this Sunday, according to ESPN reporter Adam Schefter.
Smith reportedly chose the Raiders over the Jaguars, Buccaneers and the Rams, according to NFL reporter Ian Rapoport. Smith was cut by the San Francisco 49ers after he was arrested for a hit-and-run DUI. This was just the most recent issue in a long list of arrests and off-field incidents for the talented linebacker. Smith was suspended from the NFL for nine games last season for an arrest in 2013.
The last time Smith played a full season was 2012, and he put up monster numbers including 19.5 sacks. The question will be if his productivity will be the same as before all of these incidents. The Raiders are reportedly signing him to a one-year deal, according to Chris Wesseling of NFL.com.
Raiders defensive coordinator Ken Norton Jr. will have to decide how to use Smith, as he hasn't seen him practice in his system yet. The Raiders already have a solid front seven, and adding Smith could make them a daunting defense to face. The Raiders also have players with championship history in both Justin Tuck and Malcolm Smith, who may be able to help Smith get back on track.
Smith has had numerous chances and will find himself across the San Francisco Bay in Oakland this season. It will be interesting if the league makes any statement regarding Smith before this week, but as of right now he is likely to be in a Raiders uniform this Sunday.
