The 2020 NFL Comeback Player of the Year Alex Smith will have to find a new team next season after being released by the Washington Football Team on Friday.
Smith had two years left on his deal with Washington, but had no guaranteed money. The organization saved $14.6 million by moving on.
Smith was an unsung hero for Washington last season, leading the team to the NFC East title and a playoff spot. The 36-year-old veteran was reliable and often impressive under center despite not playing football for almost two years due to a life-threatening injury in 2018.
Still, it became obvious in recent weeks that the two sides were heading towards a breakup.
Smith wants to continue playing and believes he can still be a starter in this league. Washington, on the other hand, is focused on finding their quarterback of the future.
“I want to thank Alex for his contributions this past year,” said Washington head coach Ron Rivera. “He made such an impact on our young roster, and his leadership was one of the key factors in our late-season success and in making the playoffs for the first time since 2015. Everyone here in Washington wishes Alex and his family the best going forward and appreciates all that he gave to our organization.”
Alex Smith shouldn’t have a problem landing a job this offseason despite the injury concerns surrounding him. He is expected to be an interesting target for teams that need a proven backup or a bridge quarterback.
Washington, on the other hand, recently signed Taylor Heinicke on a new deal, and they also have Kyle Allen in the QB room. The team, however, is believed to be looking into other ways to find a starter in 2021.
