What the Aldon Smith situation might mean for Seahawks

Just days after the Seahawks added defensive end Aldon Smith to their ranks, Smith has allegedly got involved in another off-field incident. Smith is now wanted by police in New Orleans for an alleged second-degree battery, as reported by ESPN. Smith has had some off-field issues in the past.

The incident apparently occurred on Saturday evening in a New Orleans coffee house, and has been captured on video according to reports. The alleged victim was reportedly rendered unconscious after being choked and was taken to a hospital but was not required to stay overnight.

Coming just two days after signing, this is a worrying development for the Seahawks and indeed for Smith himself. Regardless of the outcome and if Smith is in the wrong, it has to raise concerns regarding Smith’s ability to avoid off-field incidents, given his history.

Seahawks may have to deal with new Aldon Smith issue

For all parties, including the alleged victim, let’s hope it is not as serious as it initially appears and that Smith can avoid getting himself involved in any such future issues. If the is as serious as it first appears, then it potentially changes the Seahawks draft strategy or requires them to act quickly prior to the draft.

The Seahawks clearly feel they need additional help in the pass-rushing department and this could send the Seahawks front office back to the drawing board and scouring the free agent market and/or draft prospects to fill any void left by Smith if the incident proves to be a major issue. Maybe I will get to see Janarius Robinson from Florida State in a Seahawk uniform after all.

More importantly, as I said earlier, let’s hope this is merely a storm in a coffee cup and that all parties emerge unscathed. It would certainly be a massive shame if Smith’s off-field activities prevent him from making the most of his undoubted talent if Aldon Smith turns out to be guilty in this recent event.