Embed from Getty Images
Could Alex Smith’s gruesome leg injury keep out from the start of the 2019 season? According to Jay Glazer of FOX Sports, Smith is expected to be out eight to 10 months following surgery on his broken tibia and fibula (h/t Matthew Paras of the Washington Times). With that timetable, Smith wouldn’t be ready in time for the start of next season.
Jay Glazer on FOX says Alex Smith is going to be out 8-10 months, not 6-8. Glazer: "He's not going to be ready for the start of next season."
— Matthew Paras (@Matthew_Paras) November 22, 2018
Redskins head coach Jay Gruden initially said Smith would be out six to eight months and would make a full recovery. However, details of his gruesome injury was later revealed suggesting the Redskins quarterback may have an uphill battle of returning to the field, highlighted by a spiral fracture in his leg.
Smith was acquired by the Redskins January in a trade from the Kansas City Chiefs. Smith then signed a four-year extension worth $94 million with a guarantee of $71 million. It was considered an eye-popping commitment to a 34-year old quarterback long before Sunday’s devastating injury.
Colt McCoy started Thursday’s showdown against the Dallas Cowboys and veteran Mark Sanchez was signed Monday to serve as McCoy’s backup moving forward this season. With the latest development, it certainly brings in doubt the Redskins’ quarterback future, at least for 2019.
The thinking is McCoy will have the opportunity to show he could be the Redskins’ primary signal caller heading into 2019, as Smith rehabs. The longevity of Smith’s absence will more than likely put Washington back in the market for a quarterback no matter where he potentially would be placed on the depth chart.
The report on Alex Smith not being ready for next year's opener isn't surprising. The Redskins are looking for a new quarterback whether they admit it or not. Redskins hope Colt McCoy shows enough to avoid offseason shopping.
— Rick Snider's Washington (@Snide_Remarks) November 22, 2018
Only time will tell but Smith’s tenure in Washington seemingly has taken a drastic turn but an unfortunate event of circumstances. At this time, the primary focus is him getting healthy whenever that may be.
