According to ESPN's Jim Trotter and later confirmed by head coach Jim Tomsula, the San Francisco 49ers have released star linebacker Aldon Smith.

Last night, Smith was booked at Santa Clara County Jail for an alleged hit and run, DUI, and vandalism. He posted his $26,000 bail this morning.

According to a police affidavit of Smith's arrest, an argument led to the 49ers linebacker hitting a neighbor's car - resulting in minor damage.

"I want everybody to understand this wasn't a DUI. The situation that happened could have been handled differently," said Smith in the interview as he left the jail.

The news of his release comes just minutes before the start of Jim Tomsula's scheduled 11:30 AM press conference, which started a few minutes late.

After confirming the news, Tomsula said during the press conference that while he will no longer be with the 49ers, he will not have to walk this path alone.

"From our perspective, for him, there are things that need to be addressed with 100% of what he has. From the team perspective, that's the football. These are completely different and they don't mix," said Tomsula.

Tomsula was clearly emotional about Smith, saddened that he will no longer be with the team after working so hard and showing genuine concern for him as a person.

When asked if he thinks Smith would play football again, he said that "He has been turning his life around" and added that "People stumble." Tomsula stated that he hopes that Smith plays football again.

Tomsula stated that the media will not be able to meet with players until after today's practice, simply saying, "They're hurting."





As far as cap space is concerned, Matt Barrows of the Sacramento Bee addresses the question...