Defensive ends Justin Smith and Ray McDonald. Inside linebackers Patrick Willis and Chris Borland. Cornerbacks Chris Culliver and Perrish Cox. Outside linebacker Aldon Smith.
Those are some pretty noteworthy names who have departed the San Francisco 49ers prior to the start of this season. Smith's release from the team following his arrest on charges of a hit and run, DUI and vandalism late last week marks the latest blow San Francisco has to bear in this whirlwind of an offseason.
Head coach Jim Tomsula's handling of Smith's situation was a lone bright spot during the difficult time.