Starting Sunday, 49er fans will get to see a familiar face, Aldon Smith.
The NFL has officially reinstated Smith and he will premier this Sunday against the New York Giants. Aldon Smith is following a nine game suspension for violating the personal and substance abuse conduct policies. Jim Harbaugh has been quoted saying he’s ready to have him back despite him not playing since pre-season.
“He’s eligible to play and to practice,” coach Jim Harbaugh told reporters on Monday. “Very much look forward to that. There’s consequences for our actions — good and bad. Good consequences for good action. And there’s accountability. He has served that. He has done that. Look forward to moving forward in a fresh, clean slate.”
And when asked what he expected of Smith.
“We’re not ready to jump to predict that or answer that question,” Harbaugh said on Monday. “Excited to have him back playing football, with the team. I think that’s where the hope, the excitement lies right now.”
Harbaugh has the right mindset going into the reinstatement. No need in putting unnecessary pressure on Smith to produce. He’s a pro-athlete, hopefully during that time he has stayed in shape and has prepared himself for this moment.
