Aldon Smith, late 49ers All-Pro, spent final hours delivering pizza to charity

Former San Francisco 49ers All-Pro defensive end Aldon Smith died Saturday at the age of 36, shortly after spending the morning volunteering at a Bay Area homeless charity. According to Scott Wagers, co-founder of CHAM Deliverance Ministry, Smith had been delivering pizzas to the facility with his friend, businessman Amir Shirazi, just over an hour before his passing. The cause of death remains undisclosed by the 49ers organization.

Did You Know? Aldon Smith was the seventh overall pick in the 2011 NFL Draft and recorded 44.0 sacks during his four-season tenure with the San Francisco 49ers, a period that included three consecutive NFC Championship Game appearances.

Events Leading to Smith’s Death

Amir Shirazi, who frequently volunteers at the charity, arrived at CHAM Deliverance Ministry on Saturday with Smith. Wagers reported that the two men stayed for approximately five to ten minutes, during which he noted Smith’s humble demeanor. Before departing, Smith expressed a desire to involve his former teammates and “Niner family” in future charitable efforts, according to Wagers.

Following the visit, Shirazi told the San Francisco Chronicle that he and Smith went to a grocery store, a gas station in San Jose, and eventually to Shirazi’s home in Los Gatos. Shirazi stated that he briefly went inside his residence and returned to find Smith unresponsive in the passenger seat of his truck. Shirazi subsequently contacted 911 and requested assistance from former 49ers running back Anthony Dixon, who lives in nearby Campbell, to perform CPR.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that the contrast between Smith’s recent efforts to reconnect with the 49ers organization—including speaking to rookies at the team’s Santa Clara facility—and the sudden nature of his death underscores the personal volatility often associated with the transition from professional athletics to life after the NFL. His recent public reflections on his career regrets suggest an individual who was actively seeking a new sense of purpose.

Context and Career History

Smith’s NFL career was marked by significant on-field success followed by legal and disciplinary challenges. Following his 2015 release from the 49ers after an arrest for driving under the influence and a hit-and-run, Smith spent time with the Oakland Raiders and later returned for one season with the Dallas Cowboys in 2020. In a recent interview with barber Tee Maultsby, Smith expressed regret regarding how his professional career concluded, stating he was not proud of the ending.

Future Developments

As the 49ers have not released a cause of death, the investigation into the circumstances surrounding Smith’s passing is likely to continue through local medical examiner protocols. Because Smith had been actively engaging with former teammates and current team staff, it is possible that the 49ers organization may issue further statements or tributes once official findings are released. Observers may also anticipate further discussion within the NFL community regarding the post-career support systems available to former players struggling with the transition away from professional sports.

Inside Aldon Smith’s final hours: Ex-49er’s friend tried to revive him in truck.

Frequently Asked Questions

What were the last known activities of Aldon Smith?
According to Scott Wagers and Amir Shirazi, Smith spent his final morning volunteering at a Bay Area homeless charity before visiting a grocery store, a gas station, and a private residence in Los Gatos.

Did the 49ers confirm a cause of death?
No. The 49ers confirmed the death of the former player on Saturday night but did not disclose the cause of death.

How did Amir Shirazi know Aldon Smith?
Shirazi, a businessman, became friends with Smith around 2010 through mutual connections, including former 49ers linebacker Patrick Willis.

How do you believe the NFL can better support the transition of former players into their post-career lives?