NFL
By: Ryan Cooley
Washington will release quarterback Alex Smith in the coming days. The news is no surprise as Washington will save $14.7 million and have the 4th highest cap space (around $53 million). Smith’s comeback was nothing short of a miracle. However, the NFL is a business, and Washington is looking for a new quarterback. It wouldn’t make sense to pay $19 million for a player who may not even start.
Here are five potential landing spots for Alex Smith.
Chicago Bears
This is the most likely landing spot for Smith as he could get a chance to play. Trubisky’s time with Chicago looks to be over, and Nick Foles disappointed as well. The Bears currently have the 20th pick in the draft along with little cap space. GM Ryan Pace has minimal options at quarterback, and Smith might be their best bet.
The Bears still have a good defense. Smith is the definition of a game manager and one of the most conservative quarterbacks in the league. Limiting turnovers could work wonders for Chicago. Smith also has a relationship with head coach Matt Nagy when the two were in Kansas City together.
Jacksonville Jaguars
It is no secret that the Jaguars will take Clemson quarterback Trevor Lawerence with the first pick in the draft. I imagine Lawerence will be the starter week one. However, Jacksonville would be wise to pick up a veteran quarterback like Smith, who can help. We saw how much Mahomes benefitted from having Smith as a mentor, and the same could happen with Lawerence.
New England Patriots
The Patriots yet to have an answer at quarterback since Brady’s departure. Cam Newton’s 70.9 grade from Pro Football Focus and eight passing touchdowns to 10 interceptions left much to be desired. There is a good chance the Patriots run it back with Newton, but they could give Smith a go. I believe Smith and Belichick would make a great duo.
San Francisco 49ers
The 49ers have kicked the tires on a couple of quarterbacks so far and may take one in the draft. Jimmy Garoppolo has been up and down in his 3 ½ years in San Francisco. The Niners need a consistent quarterback. They have an elite defense when healthy and plenty of weapons (Kittle, Samuels, etc.). They wouldn’t need Smith to come in and throw 50 touchdowns. Not turning over the ball and being consistent would put them back as contenders. Smith would get a second chance to win a ring in a 49ers uniform.
The Broadcast Booth
Many football fans would like to see Smith hang up his cleats. No one thought he would play again after his tragic leg injury in 2018. However, his hard work and determination led him to be Washington’s starting quarterback by week 10, a 5-1 record and a division title.
Even with his incredible story, his play in 2020 was still underwhelming compared to other NFL quarterbacks. He ended the year with ten touchdowns to 11 interceptions and a 66 grade. He also dealt with a calf injury that prevented him from playing in the playoff game. Smith has a high football IQ which could translate to a job as a broadcaster.
