Del Rio laments NFL rules that restricted Smith's access to Raiders
Aldon Smith was released by the Oakland Raiders following a domestic violence incident, leaving former head coach Jack Del Rio wondering what he could've done to assist his former protege.
Smith was indefinitely suspended after violating the league's substance abuse policy and as a result, was not permitted to attend team practices and meetings.
Del Rio, who was fired after the 2017 season, wished there were policy changes that would've allowed him to communicate with Smith during his exile from the Raiders.
Never liked “league rules” that eliminate the ability of teams to offer Aldon and others in his situation the structure they so desperately need. 😠 https://t.co/hk0ENVhqWb
— Jack Del Rio (@coachdelrio) March 5, 2018
Smith's release could mark the end of his career, one that started off with Hall of Fame aspirations before descending into infamy for various off-field indiscretions.