A social-media post from still-suspended Raiders linebacker Aldon Smith has created a bit of a stir, given the potential implication that Smith has been reinstated following a suspension that has lasted more than 13 months.
Unfortunately for the Raiders and Smith, the potential implication isn’t the actual implication. According to an NFL spokesman, Smith’s status remains under review.
Last week, Smith expressed frustration regarding the absence of a decision regarding whether he’ll be reinstated. The relevant policy seems to require a ruling within 60 days after the application is made; the NFL believes that there is no deadline for making a decision.
For the Raiders, the deadline for Smith having an impact on the field is looming. There are two regular-season games left, and then the postseason.