Charles Haley was able to work through his own personal issues, and ended up at the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
But on the weekend he’s immortalized in Canton, his thoughts were back in San Francisco, as he watched former 49ers Aldon Smith’s career spiral out of control.
Haley said he’s disappointed at the latest turn of events in Smith’s life, and after working with him throughout his career, said he’d do whatever it takes to help the young pass-rusher regain control.
“If he needs me, I’m going. If I have to leave the night before [Hall of Fame] ceremony, I’ll go,” Haley said, via Bob Glauber of Newsday. “He’s me. When I came in the league, I had a 10-year-old inside me screaming for help but was afraid to ask.”
Smith had a stint of rehab along with his suspensions, so clearly there are issues that transcend the field. Haley dealt with his own demons during his playing days, and was able to push through them.
So now, along with the team that just cut him, Smith has someone offering to help get him back on the right path.
The hope is that he listens.
