Report: 49ers linebacker Aldon Smith could have 9-game ban reduced
San Francisco 49ers linebacker Aldon Smith's nine-game suspension for violating the NFL's personal conduct and substance abuse policies could be reduced for good behavior, reports ESPN.com’s Chris Mortensen.
Smith was suspended before the season and his ban is set to end Nov. 10 after San Francisco plays the New Orleans Saints.
Pro Football Talk also reported during the weekend that Smith’s suspension could be reduced by one or two games, making it possible for him to play in Week 9 against the St. Louis Rams.
During his suspension, Smith has been allowed to attend meetings and work out, but he has not been allowed to practice.
Smith, 25, apologized to the 49ers and their fans after being handed the suspension before the season started.
Last season, Smith missed five games while undergoing treatment at an inpatient facility after a DUI arrest last September. He still recorded 8.5 sacks while playing in 11 games.
Smith pleaded not guilty to three felony counts of illegal possession of an assault weapon in November, the charges stemming from a June 2012 party at his home. No charges were filed when Smith was arrested April 13 at Los Angeles International Airport for allegedly making a bomb threat.
During his three NFL seasons, Smith has recorded 42 sacks in 43 games, becoming the fastest player in NFL history to reach at least 30.
San Francisco (4-3) has a bye this week before returning to action against the Rams.
- Scooby Axson
PHOTOS: NFL suspensions for 2014
NFL Suspensions for 2014
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