Defense was one of many woes for the San Francisco 49ers last season, especially as linebacker after linebacker, including NaVorro Bowman, was lost to injury. Enter Malcolm Smith. The 49ers signed the MVP of Super Bowl XLVIII to a five-year, $26.5 million dollar deal. While with the Oakland Raiders in 2016, Smith had 106 combined tackles, three pass breakups and two forced fumbles.
For Smith, one of the most attractive things about the move across the Bay is the chance to work with Niners’ defensive coordinator Robert Saleh.
“I had seen some of the players and I know there was talent there,” said Smith. “My familiarity with Coach Saleh played a big factor in that as well. So, it’s one of those things where I’m kind of trusting that the right people are in place and from what I’ve seen, I think that’s the case.”
General manager John Lynch and head coach Kyle Shanahan have talked a lot about character as they rebuild this football team. That’s an area that was not lost on Smith.
“It’s all about the people,” said Smith. “So, I think it’s important that, one of the most important things to management here is the character. That plays a big factor in whether you can turn things around or not. So, I’m glad to be in a good place where that’s important.”
I had the chance to go one-on-one with Smith to get to know him a little bit better with 5 Fun Facts. Watch the video above to learn:
- If he’s a righty or lefty
- The origin of his dogs’ names
- His favorite color and why it’s meant to be that he’s a 49er
- His favorite food to satisfy his sweet tooth
- How he indulges his more musical side
- And a bonus fact.
Thanks for watching and enjoying 5 Fun Facts week! Be sure to check out more of my 5 Fun Facts series here. Go Niners!
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