Report: Raiders aren't expecting Aldon Smith to be reinstated this season
The Oakland Raiders could use some significant help on defense, particularly with their pass rush. They’re tied for last in the league with just 17 sacks, nine of which have come by Khalil Mack. Unfortunately, their last hope for assistance in that department isn’t likely to return.
According to Ian Rapoport, Aldon Smith is still waiting to meet with commissioner Roger Goodell about a possible reinstatement, but nothing has been scheduled. As a result, the Raiders aren’t expecting to get anything out of Smith this season.
Smith has had multiple run-ins with the law, most notably when he was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence and possession of marijuana in 2013. His latest suspension came last season, a one-year ban for violating the league’s substance abuse policy.
Smith has applied for reinstatement, but it sounds unlikely he’ll contribute anything to the Raiders this season. In his five-year career, Smith has 47.5 sacks despite playing just 16 games since the start of 2014.
Time is ticking on #Raiders OLB Aldon Smith & the team is not counting on his return. With just a month to go, sources feel it’s unlikely.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 4, 2016
#Raiders OLB Aldon Smith has done all his meetings, extended rehab 60 more days. Wants to meet with Goodell, but nothing scheduled as of yet
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 4, 2016
