The Oakland Raiders have a legit shot at getting a first-round bye for the NFL Playoffs, as well as even stealing the No. 1 seed and home-field advantage from the New England Patriots. They could get some extra boost if Aldon Smith were to come back, which could be the case.
The suspended Raiders pass rusher may have revealed that he got reinstated by the league when he commented the following on star linebacker Khalil Mack's Instagram Live video:
It doesn't look like Smith is truly "back," though.
The NFL says: Not so fast! According to an NFL spokesperson, Smith’s status is still under review. Smith’s suspension for violating the NFL Policy and Program for Substances of Abuse has lasted more than 13 months. The linebacker has expressed his frustration as he waits for the league to make a decision. Language in Appendix B to the substance abuse policy states that the Commissioner should be enabled to make a decision within 60 days of receipt of a reinstatement application; however, he is not required to do so.
