Raiders: Aldon Smith ‘prominently in our long-term plans'

Share

ALAMEDA – Last time general manager Reggie McKenzie spoke to the press, he said edge rusher Aldon Smith was in the Raiders’ long-term plans.

McKenzie said that on Oct. 27, exactly three weeks before Aldon Smith was suspended a calendar year for violating the NFL’s substance abuse policy.

That news broke on Tuesday afternoon, bringing forth a reality the Raiders knew could happen. Smith wouldn’t be eligible to return until Nov. 17, 2016, assuming his application for reinstatement is approved. He can apply 60 days before his suspension runs out.

Despite that long suspension, the Raiders are still interested in employing him next year.

“Aldon has been a positive addition to the Raiders,” the team said in a statement. “He remains prominently in our long term plans and we will continue to support this member of our family as he gets the help that he needs.”

McKenzie would have to offer to a new contract. Smith’s one-year, incentive-laden deal originally worth up to $8 million – he obviously won’t reach several escalators – ends after the 2015 season despite him being suspended.

The former 49er was, by all accounts, a good teammate who meshed well in the Raiders locker room and with the coaching staff. While Smith rarely spoke to the press, he seemed to like playing for the Raiders.

Raiders interest doesn’t guarantee Smith will return. A lot can happen before Smith can play NFL football again.

Also, he’s only 26 and still armed with immense talent, so there will be a market for his services assuming he stays on the right path. He is also facing misdemeanor charges of DUI with a prior conviction, hit and run and vandalism stemming from an Aug. 6 arrest that got him cut by the 49ers and eventually led to his most recent suspension.

The Raiders could hold an advantage following his positive experience in Silver and Black, though time will tell where Smith eventually ends up.

Contact Us