There had been some rumblings around the NFL about Kansas City Chiefs QB Alex Smith after they moved up rookie Patrick Mahomes from third-string to second-string quarterback.

It created speculation that the Chiefs could have Mahomes start at some point this season.

This prompted head coach Andy Reid to clear the air on the situation. When asked by Terez Paylor of the Kansas City Star about the chances of Mahomes supplanting Smith as the starter this season, here was his response:

“It’s Alex’s job. That’s what it is. There’s no gray area with that.”

Reid clearly shut the door on any speculations about the quarterback situation. It is safe to say that Smith’s job is safe and he will remain the starting quarterback for at least this season, barring any injuries.

Smith has two years remaining on his contract, so there is no rush for the Chiefs to push Mahomes into the starting lineup. However, we know that the Chiefs have very high hopes for the former 10th overall pick, as they gave up a future-first round pick to move up and obtain him.

Even though coach Reid said Smith is the starter, don't expect these rumblings to settle down. Mahomes is a superior athlete, and as long he keeps showing improvement, expect reporters to keep poking at the topic.