49ers: Early return of Aldon Smith would provide huge boost

In a story first reported by Pro Football Talk’s Mike Florio, there is a possibility that Aldon Smith’s nine-game suspension could be reduced to seven games, enabling him to return to the playing field after the 49ers’ current bye week.

The 49ers pass rush could use a much-needed spark, as it has struggled for most of the season getting consistent pressure on the quarterback. Benching Corey Lemonier (-4.7 pass rush grade) for rookie Aaron Lynch (+5.0 pass rush grade) has paid off, but the Niners still aren’t getting much production from Ahmad Brooks, whose -7.9 overall grade ranks 48^th out of 49 outside linebackers.

There is no question Aldon Smith is one of the premier pass rushers in football, and his numbers in just 11 games last season show how much disruption he can cause in the passing game.