Alex Smith probably was not planning on starting the 2013 season as the starting quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs, but he also was not planning on getting replaced mid-way through the 2012 season with the San Francisco 49ers. Smith did all he could to be the 49ers main guy since getting drafted in 2005, but inconsistencies plagued him. Then, after suffering an injury 10 games into the season, Smith was replaced by Colin Kaepernick and the 49ers never looked back. It is those first seven seasons that make Andy Reid excited to have Smith on the team.
The Chiefs acquired Smith in a trade during the offseason and named him the new starting quarterback, starting a new era for the team alongside Reid. After a slew of offseason workouts, Reid is extremely impressed with what Smith has shown on the field and is giving credit to 49ers head coach Harbaugh for the work he put in with Smith.
"I think Jim Harbaugh did a nice job with him out in San Francisco. He was productive out there," Reid said. "What we're doing here is just what you're saying. Everybody is all on board. He's a good football player. He has good leadership. I'm asking him to do a ton of things. He's handling it. We've had an interception here or there, but that's all part of this thing. You have to find out about the offense, and you can't do it with your hands in your pocket."
Reid spent a lot of time scouting Smith before seeing the quarterback first-hand on the football field. He watched tape of Smith's time in San Francisco, which was productive before getting benched. In 10 games, Smith produced 1,737 yards and 13 touchdowns with a 70.2 completion percentage. Reid credits Smith as being super intelligent and that knowledge will pay off on the football field.
Reid is not the only Chief singing the praises of Smith. Running back Jamaal Charles is convinced that Smith is the quarterback that can lead the team to a Super Bowl.
"He's the man. We believe in him, we trust in him, we want him to make plays for us. He's been winning most all of his career. I think he wants to prove people wrong: That he is a good quarterback, that he can stay consistent," Charles told NFL.com.
If Charles and Reid are correct, Smith can certainly plan on being the main man in Kansas City for many years. The quarterback is ready for his time in the spotlight and the Chiefs appear to be the best place for him to get it.
