Veteran NFL quarterback Alex Smith earned some strong praise from Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid after he announced Monday he was retiring from football.
Reid labeled Smith one of his favorite players ever, calling the former No. 1 overall pick a terrific player and even better person. He also said he would love to have Smith on his coaching staff should the former Chiefs signal-caller ever make that transition:
“He's a heck of a person. He had a great career,” Reid said, via Nate Taylor of The Athletic. “Everywhere he went, he made them better. If he gets into coaching, I'll get 1st dibs on him. He's a guy you'd love to have on your staff. A special person & one of my all time favorites.”
Patrick Mahomes has been such a game-changing talent for the Chiefs that it's almost easy to forget just how good the Reid-Smith duo was in Kansas City. Mahomes weighed in on Smith's impact as well.
Patrick Mahomes on Alex Smith's retirement: "A tremendous guy. With the injury that he had, to lead his team to the playoffs, just shows you the player he is. I'm just grateful for the time I had with him. He really helped me develop into the quarterback I am today."
— Nate Taylor (@ByNateTaylor) April 19, 2021
Smith was named to three Pro Bowl teams in five years with the Chiefs, including back-to-back seasons in 2016 and 2017. He amassed a 50-26 record in Kansas City.
The 2017 campaign was especially spectacular. Smith threw for over 4,000 yards and 26 touchdowns against just five interceptions. He led the NFL in adjusted yards gained per pass attempt (8.6) and quarterback rating (104.7) that season for the Chiefs.
The Chiefs traded Smith to Washington so as to pave the way for Mahomes. Yet, Smith remained undeterred, even after suffering a leg injury that nearly cost him his life. He made a miraculous return to help guide Washington to the playoffs this past season, earning Comeback Player of the Year honors in the process.
Smith's remarkable football story is one of class and resilience. Reid would likely love to see that story continue in the form of coaching with the Chiefs.
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