Report: Washington, Smith expected to part ways
The Washington Football Team and quarterback Alex Smith are expected to part ways in the coming days, sources told NFL Network's Kim Jones and Ian Rapoport.
Smith helped Washington capture the NFC East crown in 2020 after spending two years recovering from 17 leg surgeries. His efforts netted him the Comeback Player of the Year award.
Despite his improbable return, Smith's future in D.C. beyond the 2020 season always appeared bleak. He has no guaranteed money left on his deal and Washington could save $14.7 million against the cap by releasing him.
The 36-year-old also told GQ Magazine in February he didn't feel like Washington's brass wanted him on the team last season.
"When I decided to come back, I definitely threw a wrench in the team's plan," he said. "They didn't see it, didn't want me there, didn't want me to be a part of it, didn't want me to be on the team, the roster, didn't want to give me a chance."
Washington acquired Smith from the Kansas City Chiefs in March 2018, tabbing him as the replacement for Kirk Cousins. He went 11-5 as the starter, throwing 16 touchdowns and 13 interceptions while posting a passer rating of 82.6.
Smith played seven seasons for the San Francisco 49ers and five seasons for the Chiefs before moving to Washington.