Report: 49ers' Aldon Smith's nine-game suspension won't be reduced

San Francisco 49ers linebacker Aldon Smith's nine-game suspension for violating the NFL's personal conduct and substance abuse policies will not be reduced, Ed Werder of ESPN reports.

On Oct. 21, ESPN's Chris Mortensen reported that Smith's suspension could be reduced for good behavior.

Smith was suspended before the season and his ban is set to end Nov. 10 after San Francisco plays the New Orleans Saints.

During his suspension, Smith has been allowed to attend meetings and work out, but he has not been allowed to practice.

Last season, Smith missed five games while undergoing treatment at an inpatient facility after a DUI arrest last September. He still recorded 8.5 sacks while playing in 11 games.

• THAMEL: How Greg Schiano is working on returning to sidelines

Smith pleaded not guilty to three felony counts of illegal possession of an assault weapon in November on charges stemming from a June 2012 party at his home. No charges were filed when Smith was arrested April 13 at Los Angeles International Airport for allegedly making a bomb threat.

During his three NFL seasons, Smith has recorded 42 sacks in 43 games, becoming the fastest player in NFL history to reach 30.

Earlier in the day, 49ers defensive coordinator Vic Fangio said that Smith will "step right back on the field and play."

From 49ers.com:

"How long and how many plays will be determined by what we see in practice and how he’s doing in the game, but I wouldn’t think he’d be able to play 90 percent of the plays early on," Fangio said. "Although he’s been here working out and training, it’s not the same as playing football. So we’ll keep an eye on that and do what’s best for him."

• GONOS: Players to watch for on the Week 10 waiver wire

- Sarah Barshop and Scooby Axson