Alex Smith says important job during summer is staying in shape

Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Alex Smith says the hardest part of the upcoming summer offseason is staying in shape.

When the Kansas City Chiefs finish up their mandatory minicamp on Thursday, each player will have approximately six weeks off to do as he pleases. It’s the ultimate time for rookies to rest after a grueling pre-draft process and for everyone to get in their travel plans, family gatherings and, most importantly, rest and relaxation before the taxing NFL season begins, especially a team with postseason plans.

According to Alex Smith, the Chiefs starting quarterback, the most important thing during this period is making sure everyone stays in shape and comes back to camp ready. It’s also the hardest part given that there’s zero accountability during this time for most players.

"“To be honest, I think all of us need to continue to stay in shape. Certain guys are going to go their own paths. It is individual time and I do think it is important to take advantage of that. When we report back at the end of July we are here for the long haul … For us, I think, everybody’s responsibility is to come back ready to roll, both physically and mentally. Part of that, I think, is getting away.”"

This is the time of year when every team is crossing its collective fingers in the hopes that no player makes the news. That’s because any headlines during the summer usually center around arrests or off-the-field injuries. Smith’s words are a reminder to all Chiefs players to stay in shape physically and smart emotionally and mentally as they also take some much deserved and needed time away from the field and weight room.