After his remarkable comeback season last year, Alex Smith isn’t ready to retire. The 36-year old quarterback wants to continue his football career, even if it’s not with the Washington Football Team.
“I’m told that Alex Smith after a great comeback year, going [5-1] down the stretch, he does want to continue playing football,” ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler said on SportsCenter (h/t Bleacher Report). “He’s leaning that way, but he’s got a large cap hit. Washington could save $13.6 million if they did move on. And many people around the league believe their answer at quarterback is not in the building. So maybe they could work something out with Smith, but he does want to play somewhere.”
Alex Smith returned to the field this past season nearly two years after suffering a horrific leg injury that nearly ended his career. He emerged as the most reliable option in Washington’s quarterback carousel in 2020. His miraculous return earned him NFL Comeback Player of the Year.
Smith threw for 1,582 yards, six touchdowns and eight interceptions in eight games. His numbers weren’t eye-popping, but his presence clearly impacted Washington’s season. Smith compiled a 5-1 record in six starts, lifting Washington to a NFC East division title with a 7-9 record.
However, a bone bruise to his surgically repaired leg forced him to miss two starts down the stretch — both losses for Washington. After returning in Week 17 to clinch the division, Smith missed Washington’s playoff loss in the wild card round to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Smith wanted to take time to mull over his playing future. Meanwhile, Washington is looking for a more viable long-term solution at quarterback this offseason. Washington tried to land Matthew Stafford. They’re also reportedly have interest in Derek Carr, Marcus Mariota and Sam Darnold.
Washington re-signed backup QB Taylor Heinicke, who started in place of Smith in the playoffs, to a team-friendly two-year extension. Heinicke is expected to compete for the starting role, if Washington fails to acquire a more suitable option.
Bringing back Smith could be problematic for the team. He is owed $19 million next season and carries a $24.4 million cap hit. However, Washington can save $13.6 million if they move on from Smith.
