The family of former NFL star Aldon Smith is donating his brain to the Boston University CTE Center to research the long-term effects of repetitive brain injuries following his sudden death at age 36.

The former Missouri and San Francisco 49ers star was 36 years old.

Aldon Smith, a former All-Pro linebacker for the San Francisco 49ers whose playing career was sidetracked by legal issues, has died

Former NFL linebacker Aldon Smith, a standout with the San Francisco 49ers, has died at 36. His career, marked by exceptional talent, was repeatedly overshadowed by legal troubles…

The NFL lost one of its most electrifying defensive players on Saturday night. The San Francisco 49ers confirmed the death of former outside linebacker Aldon Smith, who was just…

Aldon Smith’s death has not only shocked the nation but has left a lingering sadness and a gaping hole of wasted potential.