San Francisco 49ers confirm release of linebacker Aldon Smith

The San Francisco 49ers have confirmed that they have released linebacker Aldon Smith following his arrest for driving under the influence.

Santa Clara police announced that the 25-year-old had been detained on charges for hit and run, DUI and vandalism in an incident on Thursday.

Smith had previously been arrested three times since 2012, resulting in him serving a nine-game ban last season, but the 49ers stuck by him and he restructured his deal with the NFC West side.

However, the latest incident has seen the club part company with the linebacker, although head coach Jim Tomsula is adamant that they will continue to support him through his off-the-field issues.

"Although he won't be playing football for the San Francisco 49ers, he won't walk this path alone," Tomsula told reporters. "There are things that need to be addressed with 100% of what he has."

Smith recorded 152 tackles, 44 sacks and one interception in his four seasons with the club.