Raiders linebacker Aldon Smith was charged today with three misdemeanors, according to ABC News. Smith has been charged with a DUI with prior conviction and refusal to submit chemical test, as well as a hit-and-run with property damage and vandalism.
Smith reportedly just signed a one-year deal with the Raiders and was reportedly eligible to play this Sunday against the Cincinnati Bengals.
Smith was released by the San Francisco 49ers when he was arrested in August for the hit-and-run while driving under the influence. This arrest was Smith's third suspicion of drunken driving since he was drafted in the first round of 2011.
As of now, Smith is reportedly eligible to play, but after these chargers have been filed it will be interesting to see what NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell and the league does.
Smith is joining a talented defense in Oakland, with players like Khalil Mack, Justin Tuck and Malcolm Smith. It will be interesting to see how defensive coordinator Ken Norton Jr. uses Smith, and exactly where he will fit in.
The 49ers likely felt they had taken enough chances on the young man, and now the Raiders will give him another chance. What he does with that chance remains to be seen, but Smith is will be arraigned on Oct. 6, according to Lindsay Jones of USA Today. Smith is likely on a thin rope in the NFL after being suspended for nine games last season, and now that he is reportedly back on a NFL roster it will be interesting to see what the league does.
