It's back to Oakland for Aldon Smith.
NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Monday that the pass rusher has agreed to a two-year deal worth up to $19.5 million with a $11 million base with the Raiders, per a source informed of Smith's situation. That will be prorated for the games he'll be eligible for.
The team later announced the re-signing.
The veteran linebacker only considered Oakland, and the Raiders -- especially owner Mark Davis -- viewed him as a priority.
It's a strong show of faith in Smith, who is currently serving a one-year suspension for violating the NFL Policy and Program for Substances of Abuse. He won't be eligible for reinstatement until mid-November.
The league-imposed ban came after Smith was involved in an August incident where he was charged with hit and run, DUI and vandalism. The arrest prompted his ouster from the 49ers after four seasons, but Oakland quickly signed him to a one-year pact last September.
Despite his troubles, the Raiders aren't giving up on a player who registered more sacks in the first two years of his career than any player in NFL history (33.5). Over 530 snaps last year, Smith teamed with star linebacker Khalil Mack for 62 hurries, nine sacks and eight quarterback hits before the suspension.
With free-agent pass rusher Bruce Irvin also on board, the Raiders are hoping Smith will return in time to pad Oakland's defense down the stretch. Considering where the team was a few seasons ago, general manager Reggie McKenzie deserves plenty of credit for building one of the AFC's most improved rosters.
