San Francisco 49ers pick up Aldon Smith option

The San Francisco 49ers have picked up the 2015 contract option on linebacker Aldon Smith, the team announced on their official Twitter account.

The 49ers had until midnight on Saturday to make their decision, and despite recent controversy off the field, Smith has been kept on.

The pass rusher was arrested at Los Angeles International Airport last month for making a false bomb threat, and as a result there was significant doubt over whether the franchise would exercise the option.

However, they have decided to keep their faith in the 24-year-old, who has recorded 42 sacks over 43 career appearances despite his problems.