San Francisco 49ers linebacker Aldon Smith could reportedly see his nine-game suspension for violating the league's policy on personal conduct and substances of abuse shortened.
Smith's union-league negotiated settlement will see his suspension shortened by a game or two for good behaviour, according to NFL.com.
If the ban is reduced, the 25-year-old could return as soon as after the bye week for week nine when the 49ers face the St Louis Rams on November 2.
The Niners linebacker received the ban back in August and his suspension has coincided with several injuries within the defensive unit to leave coach Jim Harbaugh short of options.
However, if the ban is not reduced, then Smith will return in week 11 when the 49ers face the New York Giants.
