Alex Smith took an encouraging step towards being on the field for the Washington Football Team’s must-win game against the Philadelphia Eagles Sunday. Smith returned to practice and took first-team snaps during the media portion on Thursday.
Smith has been hobbled by a right calf injury, he initially suffered in Week 14 against the San Francisco 49ers. He missed each of the last two games — both losses for Washington. That included last week’s loss to the Carolina Panthers in which Washington could have clinched the NFC East division title with a win.
Following the release of Dwayne Haskins, Smith’s health has been the main focus for Washington going into their Week 17, win-and-get in game against the Eagles.
And for good reason. Washington is 4-1 with Smith as the starting quarterback this season. They’re 2-8 in games he has not started. They’re 10-5 over his last 15 starts going back to 2018 before his devastating leg injury.
Smith didn’t practice Wednesday. Practicing and taking first-team reps is a huge step towards playing Sunday. Still, how his calf responds afterwards will be most concerning. Last week, he fully practiced on a Friday but was sore the next day and did not play.
If Smith is unable to play, Taylor Heinicke, who has one start in the NFL coming in 2018, would start in his place.
With a win against the Eagles, Washington clinches the NFC East. However, a loss eliminates Washington from postseason play.
