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SANTA CLARA -- Outside linebacker Aldon Smith began serving his nine-game suspension this week for violations of the NFL’s policies on substance abuse and personal conduct.
He is eligible to make a return for the Nov. 16 game at the New York Giants, and 49ers defensive coordinator Vic Fangio believes he will be able to keep up to speed mentally and physically through that time. Smith has been seen in the team’s weight room while his teammates are on the field practicing this week, preparing to face the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday.
“He’s attending meetings and while we’re practicing, he’s working out,” Fangio said. “He’s not allowed to come out and watch practice per the league, not per us. So, I think he’s doing anything and everything he can under the guidelines that he has to work under to continue to be involved as much as he can.”
Smith is not allowed to work on the field with members of the coaching staff. He is not allowed to attend games, either.
Due to his nine-game suspension without pay, Smith will be paid $1.099 million of his previously scheduled $2.336 million salary.
