Alex Smith is splitting reps on the scout team with backup quarterback Kyle Allen, according to Washington Football Team head coach Ron Rivera. The coach is “beginning to see the rust coming off” the 36-year old quarterback
Smith hasn’t played in an NFL game since November 18, 2018 when he suffered a compound fracture in his leg. He broke his fibula and tibia on a sack by Kareem Jackson and JJ Watt of the Houston Texans.
Smith endured 17 surgeries to repair his leg and combat a series of bacterial infections that nearly caused him amputation.
Still, Smith overcame the career-threatening injury to return to the practice field during this year’s training camp 20 months later.
He made the 53-man roster, avoiding being placed on injured reserve. However, he started the season third on the depth chart behind Allen and starting quarterback Dwayne Haskins.
It’s unclear if Alex Smith will get the opportunity to play in a game this season or if he is gradually progressing for a chance in 2021. He still has a ways to go, but not being placed on IR at the beginning of this year keeps the door opened on a potential return. With Haskins’ continued struggles in his second year, the possibility of seeing No. 11 on the field in 2020 increases.
