San Francisco 49ers outside linebacker Aldon Smith is suspended for the first nine games of the regular season and will not be available to return until Week 11. Smith's suspension was made official on Friday, along with the news that his appeals have already been denied. The suspension stems from multiple off-the-field issues, including a DUI and gun charges from last year.
Aldon Smith suspended 9 games; 49ers defense takes big fantasy hit
Aldon Smith has been suspended nine games, making three starters on San Francisco’s defense who will miss significant time. We break down the fantasy implications.
Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
Smith is one of the best pass rushers in the NFL and is a sure-bet to get to the quarterback when he’s on the field. San Francisco was already bracing for his potential loss, though many figured Smith would get a reduced suspension due to voluntary rehab last season.
Fantasy Impact: Like we said, San Francisco has been bracing for his potential loss, with guys like Corey Lemonier and Aaron Lynch able to provide some pass-rushing prowess in his absence, alongside Ahmad Brooks, also one of the best pass-rushing linebackers in the NFL. But this is still a blow to the 49ers defense and will almost certainly result in fewer sacks.
If you add in the injury to NaVorro Bowman, which is expected to keep him out for around half the season, and the injury to Glenn Dorsey, the starting nose tackle, things get a little worrying. With guys like Patrick Willis, Justin Smith and Ray McDonald, the Niners will likely be fine, but they may not be the fantasy powerhouse that they have been in recent years. The defense is worth drafting and is worth starting, but it no longer has a case for best defense in the NFL, with teams like Seattle and Carolina now firmly ahead in that category.
