Smith heads to rehab over alcohol abuse

Following his DUI arrest last week San Francisco 49ers linebacker Aldon Smith has checked in to rehab to deal with his alcohol abuse. Smith’s arrest last week was the second time he had been arrested for driving under the influence. After the first arrest he received required counseling for alcohol abuse.

The facility Smith has been admitted to works completely independent from the 49ers organization. This is a requirement by the NFLPA to make sure that Smith and other players get treated as people and not football players. The NFLPA also doesn’t want Smith’s return date to the 49ers to be a factor in completing his treatment.

Smith is currently on the non-football illness list and will be away from the team at least a month. Unfortunately for Smith he is also facing a possible two game suspension when he does come back and join the 49ers.

Smith gave this statement which was released by the team, “I am taking a leave of absence to address my health. I am sorry that I have affected my team, my family and the organization. I will do everything in my power to handle this situation the best way possible. I appreciate the support of the 49ers and our fans.”

Many fans would love to see Smith on the field right now especially with the 49ers struggling, but health comes first. With a whole career and life ahead of him the man who turns 24 tomorrow (Wednesday) would be best to get this treated now.

– John McAuliffe (@John_Mac310)