Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

The Kansas City Chiefs traded two high draft picks to the San Francisco 49ers for QB Alex Smith this offseason and it appears, so far at least, that the organization is happy with their new signal caller.

Chiefs head coach Andy Reid sat down with Mitch Holthus recently on an episode of “Chiefs Live” on KCChiefs.com. When asked about his QBs, Reid began gushing about how hard the players had worked during the offseason program. While Reid had kind words for all four of his QBs, the coach admitted that it all starts with Alex Smith.

“You’ve got to kick Alex out of the building,” said Reid. “The are a certain amount of hours that the NFL allows you to be here and he wants more. And he can’t have more. It’s just not allowed. You’ve got to tell him ‘Listen, it’s time to go.’”

Reid isn’t the only Chiefs decision-maker praising Smith. Just a few days ago, GM John Dorsey gave an interview to 810 Spors Radio in KC and said that Smith was “better than advertised.”

“Better than advertised,” Dorsey gushed. “From a leadership standpoint, he ‘s a natural leader. Guys gravitate towards him automatically and that’s a very true sign. ”

Aside from Smith’s leadership, Dorsey also pointed out that the QBs smarts are a huge asset as he learns head coach Andy Reid’s offense.

“Intellectually, he’s absorbed this playbook as fast as anybody I’ve seen,” said Dorsey. “As coach (Reid) would say, ‘I can load him up with anything.’ And he can dissect it. If he makes one mistake, he learns from that mistake.”

This should be good news to Chiefs fans because the QB usually sets the tone for the rest of the team.

What do you think, Addicts? Will Smith’s hard work translate to wins on the field?

Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

Kansas City Chiefs QB Alex Smith has something to prove in 2013.

Smith’s NFL story seemed to be the stuff of fairytales. He entered the league as the No. 1 overall pick by the San Francisco 49ers and was expected to continue the outstanding lineage of QB play began by Joe Montana and continued by Steve Young.

Only, Smith flopped. He failed to live up to expectations, and organizational instability at both the head coach and offensive coordinator positions seemed to be aiding in the QBs fall from grace. When new head coach, Jim Harbaugh  was hired by the 49ers in 2011, most fans expected that Smith would be one of the first players booted out the door by the new regime.

Only he wasn’t.

Harbaugh stuck with Smith and the QB’s redemption story began. Smith led the 49ers to the NFL Championship game in Harbaugh’s first season as coach. In 2012, Smith picked up where he left off and was leading the NFL in passer rating when he suffered a concussion and was forced to sit out a week.

Smith never got his job back. The fairytale had turned into a nightmare.

Ever the professional, Smith watched and supported his backup, Colin Kaepernick, as he led the 49ers to the Super Bowl.

The 49ers fell short in the big game, and after the season, Smith was traded to the Kansas City Chiefs. Kansas City GM John Dorsey and head coach Andy Reid handpicked Smith to be their QB of the future. Despite holding the No. 1 pick in the 2013 NFL Draft, the KC brass felt Smith was the best QB option available and gave up a couple of high draft picks to acquire him.

Despite handling the situation in San Francisco with grace, Smith isn’t afraid to admit he has a chip on his shoulder, now that he is a Chief.

“I don’t know if there’s anything I’m going to change as far as playing,” said Smith on The Boarder Patrol on Sports Radio 810 recently when asked if losing his job in San Fran made him feel as if he had something to prove or change as a QB in KC. “Obviously I’m going to strive to continue to get better and better. But nothing drastic jumps out at me. Just continue to try to play the position as best I can and try to learn and I feel like I’m around a lot of great minds here at the facility between coach Reid, coach Peterson and coach Nagy.”

Smith continued:

“I have a lot to prove. The goal is to get one of those rings and to hold up that trophy and constantly working towards that. I feel like the last couple years, having been close, kind of having seen it and not gotten it and in a sense, what happened last year with an injury and then not playing at the end of the year…no question a bitter taste in my mouth. It’s something I feel only winning will get rid of.”

I have no problem with Smith admitting that he has a bitter taste in his mouth after what happened in San Francisco. Hopefully the QB can use the chip on his shoulder as extra motivation to work even harder at getting his new team to the Super Bowl.

The Chiefs certainly got a class act when they traded for Alex and if Smith can continue to play in KC the way he did the last two years in San Fran, the Chiefs could find themselves back in the playoff mix.

Here we stand at the edge of the void.

The last Chiefs OTA’s are now in the books and there is nothing coming up in the NFL league schedule for the next seven (yes, seven) weeks until training camp begins.

In case it hasn’t donned on you yet, that is a long time. With nothing happening and a dearth of real Chiefs stuff to analyze we’re all going to have to refocus our attention on our empty lives, read books, talk to our loved ones, I dunno, whatever desperate people do.

It just so happens that this particular break also comes right as the third season of Game of Thrones is coming to an end because the Gods are evidently especially cruel this year (if you watch Game of Thrones, you know this is true).

So, here are my humble suggestions for how you can enjoy life and still get a little Chiefs fever going.

1.) Read Arrowhead Addict religiously. I’m not saying we’re always going to have as much commentary and news as other parts of the year (I really painted myself into a corner by pledging not to make predictions), but we’re still here to help you. Think of us as your support group … or your enablers.

2.) Feel vindicated by this article about a poll someone dug up from 2009 showing that more ESPN voters preferred to have Matt Cassel running their offense than Aaron Rodgers. Granted, Kansas was the only state that preferred Cassel over everyone, including Philip Rivers, Jay Cutler and Matt Ryan, but I’m betting a lot of you are from Missouri anyway, so … feel good. The Chiefs weren’t the only morons who liked Cassel in 2009.

Kirby Lee/Image of Sport-USA TODAY Sports

3.) Watch this video repeatedly. It covers the Chiefs offseason additions and has some sort of rad filter over footage of RB Jamaal Charles running all over the field. You may want to skip over some of the sappy slo-mo intro upon later viewings.

4.) I also recommend the Amateur Hour Podcast, which gets some good guests to talk Chiefs and other KC sports over a few beers. Makes me feel like home. (Note: explicit language)

5.) You’ll also find some good encouragement in these highlights of QB Alex Smith that were made, apparently, by a 49ers fan. Not everyone thinks he’s overrated.

Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

6.) Miss that familiar feeling of crushed expectations you get from the Chiefs? Add in 100-degree heat and go see yourself a Royals game over at Kauffman.

7.) Implore all Chiefs players on social media to use car services and taxis. All NFL players seem to do this time of year is drive drunk and beat up strippers.

8.) In a similar vein, buy a Raiders player a drink. A strong one. For the good of the Chiefs.

9.) Prepare plans and supplies to strategically place banana peels around Peyton Manning’s work and home. You know … in case he gets hungry.

10.) Let your family know they have exactly seven Sundays to have meaningful conversations and meals that don’t include dip with you. Then it’s all over, hopefully until February.

Help your fellow addicts out adding more suggested activities in the comments section and tell us how you’re going to spending your seven weeks of misery!

The Kansas City Chiefs have wrapped up their OTAs and Mini Camp and we have now begun the long slow wait that takes us up to the start of training camp. At this point all fans (and bloggers) can do is speculate as to wether or not the moves that their favorite team made this offseason made their team better. The Chiefs, as we all know, have had a massive overhaul from GM, to head coach, to quarterback, in addition to the regular influx of free agents and draft picks. This week I want to look at just how much we should expect Alex Smith to improve the Kansas City Chiefs.

The past couple of seasons the play at the quarterback position for the Kansas City Chiefs has been about as bad as any team in the NFL. Words that come to mind are awful, putrid, embarrassing, and incompetent. It’s been so bad that Chiefs fans got a glimpse of NFL journeyman Kyle Orton for a couple of games and were like “WOW, he’s SO much better than what we’re used to!” The quarterback play has been the biggest reason for this team losing games, at least when it comes to the players on the field (we can save the GM/coach/QB blame game for another day). I for one, thought to myself many times over the past few years that with the solid skill players we have on both sides of the ball all we need is a QB that was good, not all world, just good enough to not hold KC back and the Chiefs might be a team to recon with.

When the Chiefs traded for Alex Smith most KC fans were upset. Not necessarily because they didn’t like Smith, but because most fans were ready for KC to draft and develop their own franchise QB (this blogger included). That having been said, when you look at the past few seasons it is clear that Smith’s play has been light years better than what KC was trying to pass off as NFL quarterbacking. So the question is, how much should we expect Smith to improve the team.

Here’s what I did.

For the sake of this post I used a quarterback rating dividing line of 80 to determine poor QB play versus average or better QB play. I then looked back over the past three seasons (2010, 2011, and 2012) at how other areas of the Chiefs team were affected by the QB play. The areas I looked at:

Defensive Yards Allowed
Defensive Points Allowed
Defensive Sacks
Turnovers Created
Rushing Yards
Rushing Yards Per Carry
Rushing TDs
Wins

Basically, I wanted to know if the Chiefs defense and run game benefited from getting better production from the QB position. I can’t be the only KC fan that has thought to himself “The Chiefs defense would be so much better if they just had a QB that could sustain drives and not turn the ball over!” or “I can’t believe Jamaal Charles is this good with no passing game. Imagine how much better the run game would be if KC had a passing attack!” So I thought I’d see if the numbers back those theories up.

Here’s what I found.

From 2010-2012 the Chiefs had 18 games where their primary QB that game had a QB rating above 80 and 30 games where it was below 80. Here’s how the numbers for the areas I mentioned above compare.

Defensive Yards Allowed
QB Rating Over 80: 329.7
QB Rating Under 80: 346.2

Defensive Points Allowed
QB Rating Over 80: 20.2
QB Rating Under 80: 24.2

Sacks Per Game
QB Rating Over 80: 2.4
QB Rating Under 80: 1.7

Turnovers Created Per Game
QB Rating Over 80: 1.2
QB Rating Under 80: 1.4

KC Rushing Yards Per Game
QB Rating Over 80: 161.4
QB Rating Under 80: 133.6

Average KC Yards Per Carry
QB Rating Over 80: 4.5
QB Rating Under 80: 4.3

Rushing TDs Per Game
QB Rating Over 80: 0.61
QB Rating Under 80: 0.53

Now, these numbers aren’t staggering, but two things stand out to me. When KC gets better QB play they give up 4 less points per game and rush for about 28 yards more per game. These are the same defenders, same running backs, same offensive line, but when the QB position performs better they are put in better positions and see some benefit.

That’s not the best news for KC fans though. That comes when we look at what really matters most. Wins.

Here are the win/loss records broken down.

QB Rating Over 80: 12-6 (66.67%)
QB Rating Under 80: 7-23 (23.33%)

That’s a HUGE difference. I don’t think anyone will be blown away be those percentages. It’s pretty much common knowledge at this point that it’s a QB driven league. These numbers just prove that this is true for the Chiefs as well.

So the question then becomes wether or not Alex Smith can consistently put the Chiefs in that first category. His recent history indicates that he can. At very least he will be a MASSIVE improvement over KC’s recent QBs. In the past 48 games KC QBs have had 18 games with a QB rating over 80. Alex Smith has had 17 games over 80 in just his past 24 games. So in half the games he put up almost the same number of quality performances as KC QBs did in twice that time.

If you’ll bear with me for a little more “stat nerdiness” I’ll make my final case for Smith improving KC.

Alex Smith had a QB Rating of 80 or better in 17 of his past 24 starts over the past two seasons, that’s 70.8% of his starts. 70.8% of 16 games is about 11.3 games. So if Smith can repeat his production from San Francisco then KC fans should expect Smith to give them 11 games with a QB rating over 80 and 5 games with a QB rating under 80.

If the numbers above hold true and KC wins 66.67% of their games with a QB rating over 80 then they should expect to win 7 of the 11 games where Smith has a QB rating over 80. If they win 23.33% of the games with a QB rating under 80 then they should expect to win 1 of the 5 games where Smith has a QB rating under 80. That would give the Chiefs a record of 8-8.

Now, I know 8-8 isn’t playoff caliber, but keep in mind this is just factoring in the improved QB play. It doesn’t take into account the improved roster that John Dorsey has assembled or the improved coaching staff lead by Andy Reid. What these numbers are saying is that if you took Alex Smith’s QB play from SF the past two seasons and put it on the Chiefs team that went 2-14 last year it should make them an 8 win team. These numbers suggest that if Andy Reid can get Alex Smith to perform like he did in SF that should be good for 6 more wins this season by itself.

That is pretty encouraging news for Chiefs fans.

I know that these numbers can’t tell the whole story, they never do. I know that QB Rating in and of itself isn’t a perfect way to define good and bad QB play. However, I do think they paint a general picture and that we can take some things away from that.

The key for the Chiefs this season is Andy Reid getting Alex Smith to play as well (or better) as he did in SF with Jim Harbaugh. If that happens then the defense should give up less points, the running game should run for more yards, and the Chiefs should be (at worst) a .500 team. If the improved roster and coaching can produce a couple more wins on top of that then there is hope that KC could make a run at the playoffs.

I’m curious to hear what you think in the comments below. Are you encouraged by these numbers? Do you think there is some real validity to them? I tried to be completely objective, but do you think these numbers are bogus? Did the stats make your eyes glaze over and so you just skipped to the end? I’d love to hear your thoughts regardless.

As always, thanks for reading and GO CHIEFS!!!!!!!!!!!!

Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

The Kansas City Chiefs have a new QB in former 49er Alex Smith and according to GM John Dorsey, Smith is “better than advertised.”

Speaking with Kevin Kietzman of 810 Sports Radio in Kansas City, Dorsey was asked for a revised scouting report on the QB he traded two high draft picks for just a couple of months ago.

Dorsey didn’t hesitate.

“Better than advertised,” Dorsey gushed. “From a leadership standpoint, he ‘s a natural leader. Guys gravitate towards him automatically and that’s a very true sign. ”

Aside from Smith’s leadership, Dorsey also pointed out that the QBs smarts are a huge asset as he learns head coach Andy Reid’s offense.

“Intellectually, he’s absorbed this playbook as fast as anybody I’ve seen,” said Dorsey. “As coach (Reid) would say, ‘I can load him up with anything.’ And he can dissect it. If he makes one mistake, he learns from that mistake.”

Smith has long been known as an excellent practice QB. Until recently, however, he had not been able to translate his success in practice to live games. During Smith’s resurgence in San Francisco over the last two years, the QB was extremely accurate and efficient, however there seemed to still be a tentativeness to push the ball down field. Ready any scouting report on Smith and you aren’t like to find “deep ball accuracy” listed as an asset.

But listening to Dorsey, it sounds like Smith’s deep ball may be better than advertised as well.

“His pass to 20 yards, deep throws are as accurate, if not more accurate than I had originally thought,” said Dorsey. “I always knew he was a good athlete. He has more than enough arm-strength. Now it comes down to a timing thing. It comes down to timing and understanding this new offense and what he has. Getting timing with his weapons, in terms of receivers and tight ends. Understanding the impact that the running back will have in the passing game and how it will open up different lanes. It’s just about getting a broader sense of how this offense can help him succeed if he just kind of follows through.”

Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

The Kansas City Chiefs are in the midst of their three-day mandatory minicamp and head coach Andy Reid has brought in some old but familiar faces.

We already knew that the Chiefs enjoyed a visit from former head coach Dick Vermeil but pictures from yesterday’s practice showed that Vermeil’s former QB, Trent Green, was also on hand.

The big focus of camp seems to be new QB Alex Smith getting familiar with Andy Reid’s offense. Smith, who came over to the Chiefs in a trade from the 49ers, could be the key to success or failure for the 2013 squad.

With the offseason practices winding down, Smith says he is already getting comfortable with his receivers.

“It’s the same type of thing” said Smith. “We’re head and shoulders above where we were a couple months ago. That’s a never ending thing as well. I don’t think it’s something, and all of a sudden, ‘Hey we got a good feel for each other, we don’t need to work anymore.’ It’s just constantly. You’re constantly working on it. We’re constantly perfecting our craft. Every single day it’s coming out here and pushing to get better. Obviously, yeah, I do feel a lot better than where we were a few months ago, but it’s still a long road ahead. One more tomorrow and we’ll finish this offseason up. It’s hard to believe it’s one more practice, but we have to make the best of it.”

Smith also says he plans to try to get the offense together during the six-week break the team has between the end of minicamp and the start of training camp.

“Yeah, we have a long time off. Everyone has their own schedule, but I’m sure we’ll get together. The guys that can, when we can, that type of deal.”

Smith also outlined how he will spend the six-week break.

“For me, you’ve put in all this work, working out, football on the field throwing, so to take six weeks off and not continue that, it would be a shame with all the gains that you’ve made, we’ve made,” said Smith. “For me, you’re constantly working out every day. We’re going to keep throwing. I’m going to continue throwing. When you can, yeah, you spend the rest of your time with your family, and get it in because once the season starts, especially the life of a quarterback, I’ll be here a lot more than I’ll be at home.”

Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

Kansas City QB Alex Smith has a career-resurgence in San Francisco in 2011 and the Chiefs are hoping their new signal caller can continue to improve during his stay in the City of Fountains.

Chiefs head coach Andy Reid is often credited for getting the most out of his QBs. If Reid can get more out of Smith than Jim Harbaugh did in San Francisco, the Chiefs could find themselves challenging for a playoff spot in 2013.

Reid, said he is happy with Smith’s progress thus far in the offseason workouts and practices.

“Well I think Alex is doing a good job,” said Reid after yesterday’s minicamp. “He’s working, he shows nice control of the offense, guys respect him, good command in the huddle, he gets peoples’ attention. He’s demanding – he’s demanding on himself but he’s also demanding on the guys around him and they seem to respond to that.”

Smith, who was often criticized in San Francisco for not taking enough shots downfield, is being pushed by Ried to take more chances, at least early in the process.

“It’s a new offense, so I would tell any quarterback that comes into one, that’s what you need to do,” said Reid. “I’ve told them all that. Go ahead and take your shots, see what you can get away with, within reason. If it’s a close throw, there are going to be a few of those in the National Football League on game day, so you need to know what you can get away with on each route and how you work it. That’s kind of what I told all of them.”

The Chiefs only have two more minicamp practices left before the break until training camp. Reid is hoping his team can come back and practice with the same intensity for the rest of the week.

“It went back-and-forth,” Reid said of Wednesday’s practice. I saw some good things. We had a couple down-the-field throws with the offense, more so than we did yesterday. The guys were working hard. That’s a challenge – to come back that second day, are you willing to work as hard as you did the day before. They’re willing to do that.”

The offseason practices are all about laying the ground work for training camp. Once the Chiefs reconvene in in late July, the real work begins.

John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports

The Kansas City Chiefs are still in the midst of their OTA practices and new QB Alex Smith is still working on developing a relationship with his new receivers.

One receiver that is getting some extra looks this week as Dexter McCluster recovers from a hamstring injury is former Michigan Wolverine, Junior Hemingway. The Chiefs selected Hemingway in the seventh round of the 2012 NFL Draft but the WR failed to really catch on and spent most of last season on the practice squad.

“I think he’s doing a great job,” said Smith when asked if Hemingway was emerging at OTAs. “He’s had a little window here where he’s getting a little more opportunities because Dex (Dexter McCluster) hasn’t been out here the last couple days. He’s gotten a lot of work and really making the most of it. He’s a guy we’re really moving around a lot. He’s gotten good work.”

Smith seemed hesitant to offer of glowing endorsement of Hemingway, who could have an uphill battle to make the final 53-man roster. Still, the extra work Hemingway is seeing in the wake of McCluster’s injury could end up paying off once training camp arrives.

Ahead of Hemingway on the WR depth chart is a pair of first-round picks in Dwayne Bowe and Jonathan Baldwin. Baldwin is still looking to live up to his draft stock while Bowe is showing Smith just why the Chiefs made a big investment to re-sign the former LSU Tiger.

For Smith, Baldwin and Bowe present to big targets.

“They’re doing a great job,” said Smith when asked about Baldwin and Bowe. “Everybody across the board is putting in a lot of work and those two guys, especially working with the first unit. We’re getting a lot thrown at us and those guys are making a lot of adjustments. They’re two big targets, really big targets. Dwayne is a really special player. You can see it out here making plays. Anything near him he seems to come down with. That’s what you like as a quarterback, but those guys are doing a great job.”

In interviews, Smith is definitely different than former Chiefs starter Matt Cassel. Cassel was always friendly and a bit of a joker. Smith, on the other hand, comes off a little more business like, though still warm. The young Chiefs could use some leadership in the huddle and hopefully Smith will be able to provide that and keep his teammates on offense accountable and working hard throughout the summer.

What do you think, Addicts? Will Alex Smith be a more demanding leader than Matt Cassel and will it pay off on the field?

Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

The Kansas City Chiefs are continuing their OTA (organized team activities) practices this week and yesterday, QB Alex Smith was asked about a number of topics, including WR Dwayne Bowe’s pronouncement that he (Bowe) would lead the NFL in receptions.

“I’m not worried about that,” said Smith in comments distributed by the Chiefs. “I’m really trying to lead the team in wins. It would be great, but that’s such a long way off. I’m not thinking about that to be honest. Not at all. Jacksonville is the date we’re all looking at. It’s all we care about. We have a lot of practices to get ready, and we need a lot of practices to get ready for that game. We have to play a lot of catch up. We don’t have the luxury of having been together for years and been in the same system. We’re playing catch up right now. We have to make up a lot of ground.”

Just days ago, Bowe got a little boastful to the media, declaring that RB Jamaal Charles would lead the league and rushing. Bowe then added that he would lead the NFL in receptions and TDs.

For his part, Smith isn’t getting caught up in any talk of stats. He seems to be focused on getting his teammates ready for the season while also learning the differences between Andy Reid’s offense and the one he ran in San Francisco.

“It’s hard to compare or to put in words,” said Smith when asked about the similarities between the two offensive systems. “Obviously, a lot further along, to say the least, but still a long ways off from where we need to go. I think we’re definitely making strides. We have to continue to do it.”

Smith said the key to getting comfortable will simply be repetition and volume.

“For me, it’s one thing, I like the volume, Said Smith. “I like the amount they’re throwing at us during the offseason. I like how much the coaches are demanding of us. It’s a great thing. They continue to push us. They expect a lot out of us, everybody. I think it’s going to make a difference come the fall.”

Early reports out of OTAs indicate that the offense is a bit behind the defense but is traditionally the case early on in the practice process. If Smith and the Chiefs can catch up to the defense in a hurry, KC could have a much more balanced team in 2013 than it did in 2012.

Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

Kansas City Chiefs WR Dwayne Bowe told reporters yesterday that he would lead the NFL in receptions and touchdowns in 2013 but he also had some praise for his new QB, Alex Smith.

“Just watching Steve Young back in the day, he’s that kind of guy,” Said Bowe on Wednesday. “He’s not too vocal about it, but when he’s in the huddle, he makes his presence known. He’s demanding guys speed up — I mean, I never had a quarterback like that.”

Wow. That is pretty high praise.

Bowe isn’t the only player heaping praise on Smith. Despite being early on in the process, the players seem to be warming to Smith as their new leader. Two of those players are WRs Dexter McCluster and Jonathan Baldwin.

“He’s a great quarterback, a guy that’s mobile, a guy that knows how to read defense and take advantage of mismatches,” McCluster said. “He’s definitely confident. As a quarterback, you need to be confident. But knowing him, he’s never shaken.”

Baldwin noted that he is already developing a rapport with his new QB.

“We communicate all the time. We text back and forth, talking about different things we see, different things we want to do,” said Baldwin. “He kind of understands where I’m going to be, and I understand what he’s thinking, and the more you have a relationship with your quarterback off the field, the better it is on the field.”

For Baldwin and McCluster, Smith could be just what the doctor ordered. While McCluster has had a bit more success, both players have failed to meet the expectations that come along with being taken in the first two rounds of the draft. Andy Reid’s offense, combined with Smith’s accuracy, could be the combination that finally helps McCluster and Baldwin get to the next level as receivers.

What do you think, Addicts? How big of an impact is Alex Smith going to have on the Chiefs’ offense?

I have stepped off.

There, I said it.

It’s been quite a ride, one that involved personally providing about 1/3 of this video’s total views. I am also the ESPN Football Today Podcast’s designated Chiefs SuperFan, and when we SuperFans pretended to be GM’s and did our own mock draft, I of course rushed to the (totally metaphorical in this case) podium and took Geno Smith 1^st overall.

That same day it was announced that the Chiefs had agreed to the trade for Alex Smith in principle, and I reacted pretty much like this.

But, a lot then changed over the past few weeks.

First, the Chiefs went out and had themselves one heck of a free agency. The team was able to retain the services of our three most important free agents, picked up some solid additional pieces and everyone they let go was replaced. RT Eric Winston who was this year’s shocking cut, is still on the market. So, as questionable as that decision seemed at the time, apparently the NFL is seeing something we don’t.

In the end, my greatest fear with the Alex Smith trade was that this new regime saw our loaded roster and thought, “We can probably win games with these guys plus a game manager.” Like many others, nightmares of Matt Cassel were dancing in my head.

I also just wanted this team to draft a damn quarterback in the first round for once come hell or high water. That is something this team has never done since I have been alive, and during my 25 years on this Earth only two quarterbacks drafted by the team have started a game for the Chiefs – Doug Hudson and Brodie Croyle (spoiler: both sucked).

Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports

But, at some point, once the kneejerk frustration wore off, I realized I was projecting all of my hopes and dreams onto Geno and what he might become, but wasn’t really looking at it all in the proper context.

First off, I don’t really watch college football. I went to a university without a football program and I only really have time to be irrationally obsessed with one team in one league at a time. From what I understand, however, most of the conferences are heavily lopsided and if you truly are a 1^st-round NFL quarterback, you should dominate the collegiate competition. Geno didn’t do that and had several duds in his senior year.

Secondly, when determining a player’s worth, it’s about more than what your team wants. Value is determined by the market, and the market is determined by buyers and sellers.

When you’re watching the stock market, you don’t want to follow the chatter. Studies have actually shown that statistically you are better off doing a fire sale on any stock Mad Money’s Jim Kramer tells you to buy.

Instead, investors and market watchers are following the “smart money.” Don’t listen to the talking heads, watch the people at the top whose livelihoods depend on being right about this stuff and who are consistently the best at it. In this case, we have the actual NFL teams and their armies of scouts to observe. If you see how they behave, you get a good idea about what the smart people think about this year’s market for quarterbacks.

So far, the consensus seems to be that another team’s backup is better than any of the incoming rookies. While the Chiefs moved first, every other QB-needy team has also pounced. The Raiders snagged Matt Flynn, the Cardinals in turn got Carson Palmer. Mike Vick was hurriedly (and expensively) re-signed. The Bills grabbed Kevin Kolb and the Jets took David Garrard. Matt Cassel, who we all know to be of the highest caliber of quarterback, was on the market for just a few hours before signing a new deal with Minnesota to compete with their starter. Heck, even 37-year-old Matt Hasselbeck was out there for less than 24 hours before getting another job.

Of course, many of these QB-hungry teams will likely draft quarterbacks later this month as well, but these moves are still very telling. Most years, veteran quarterbacks sit out on the open market for most of the spring and even summer before getting snagged for backup and compete-to-start positions. Most teams want to at least see how the draft shakes out before going after those guys, because, most years, there are plenty of good QB prospects and teams know that those veteran options will still be there after the picks have been made.

This year, we’ve seen the opposite market reaction. There has been a total run on veteran signal-callers BEFORE the draft, which means that QB-needy teams see little value in the draft at that position and are trying to fill their holes now with little faith that they are going to get a guy who would have the potential to compete for a starting position this year.

This, coupled with the fact that every talent evaluator I respect says there are no 1^st-round quarterbacks this year, tells you a lot about Geno’s value as a prospect and why it would be foolhardy to take him at 1^st overall.

Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports

The second big reason I have moved on from my Geno obsession is that I have finally come around to the guys that Dorsey and Reid have added in Alex Smith and Chase Daniel. I am very excited to see what Reid can do with Smith, who is the type of quarterback that Reid’s offense is meant for (unlike McNabb and Vick). Meanwhile, I think Daniel is a good grab for a backup especially because he is young and has a lot of upside.

If you need more convincing on Smith, I suggest reading this and this by our pals over at Arrowhead Pride. If you’re still not convinced, please proceed to blast me in the comments section as usual.

I don’t know about the rest of you, but this past week has done wonders for my mental health.

Although we still have to get through the rest of free agency, the Draft and training camp, it is quite clear that the Chiefs team that takes the field in September will be the best in years. In terms of balance on both offense and defense, it may be the best we’ve had since the 1990’s.

Of all the myriad moves the Chiefs made in the past week, nearly all seemed to have two things in common: 1.) The players cited the winning credibility of our head coach as one of the major factors in them signing for KC (when was the last time we heard that?) and 2.) (In part because of point #1,) the team got good value with each of its pickups.

On the second point, there were only two players some commentators believe the Chiefs overpaid for: TE Anthony Fasano (4 years, $16 million) and QB Chase Daniel (3 years, $10 million). I disagree in both cases.

First, Fasano.

Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports

Line up this guy’s stats next to literally any player that has caught a ball for the Chiefs in the last five years. He’s averaged 4.6 touchdowns per season since joining the Dolphins in 2008. The only Chief that comes close to that is WR Dwayne Bowe with 6.8, but take away his insane 15-TD 2010 season and his average is 4.75 – pretty much the same as Fasano. By the way, Bowe’s deal averages to over $10 million per year, Fasano’s — $4 million.

What’s that? Only crap quarterbacks were throwing to Bowe the last five years? Well, here’s a list of the guys that have been throwing to Fasano since 2008: Chad Pennington, Chad Henne, Tyler Thigpen, Matt Moore, Ryan Tannehill. The only time Fasano has played with a quarterback that posted a QBR ranked in the top 15 in the league was in his first year with Pennington, who turned in a 74.6 rating that year.

That year, Fasano averaged 13.4 yards per reception and racked up 7 TD’s. Just a reminder: Alex Smith’s QBR last year was 70.1. Moeaki certainly has potential, but he’s only gotten into the end zone four times for us in his NFL career.

Next, Daniel.

Obviously, there is very little tape on Daniel, but the Chiefs got the market rate for him.

I understand a lot of Chiefs fans are skeptical because pretty much the only people who have seen Daniel play in an NFL uniform are Saints and Redskins fans. Luckily for you, I went to college in Washington, DC, and I was still following the Redskins in 2009 when Daniel entered the league. An undrafted free agent pickup by the ‘Skins, he outplayed every QB on the roster that preseason, ending with a QB rating of 110.6. But, the regime decided to stick with QB’s Todd Collins, Colt Brennan and Jason Campbell when the season started because they’d already wasted draft picks on two of them and they trusted old man Collins as a safer backup option.

Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

Daniel’s spot on Washington’s practice squad wasn’t even warm before New Orleans snatched him by offering him a roster spot, seeing a little of Drew Brees in him. Here’s how his preseasons with the Saints have gone since:

2010: 31/48 (64.5%), 369 yards (11.9 average), 4 TD, 3 INT, RAT: 78.1

2011: 28/53 (52.8%), 447 yards (15.9 average), 3 TD, 1 INT, RAT: 91.3

2012: 46/64 (71.8%), 538 yards (11.7 average), 4 TD, 2 INT, RAT: 98.7

Of course, it’s always difficult to judge players – especially quarterbacks – based on preseason play. On one hand, they’re throwing against mostly backup defensive backs, but they’re also playing with a hodge-podge of offensive linemen and receivers, most of whom haven’t played with each other before and won’t be on the team by the time the regular season begins. In the end, there are reasons why the chaotic qualities of playing in the second half of preseason games can go both for and against QB’s.

What we can gleam from these stats is that Chase Daniel has proven he can be an efficient quarterback and he is progressing. The only lull in his progress towards very high-efficiency throwing was in 2011 when he was obviously trying more deep passes, accumulating a 15.9 yards-per-completion average.

It is also telling that he was able to work his way up from undrafted free agent to second-string quarterback on the New Orleans freakin’ Saints, whose offense requires both smarts and a guy you trust to throw the ball 50 times a game sometimes.

But, don’t take my word for it.

Matt Williamson of Scouts Inc. wrote in an ESPN Insider article this week: “Daniel was one of my favorites among this year’s free-agent quarterbacks, and it wouldn’t surprise me if the former University of Missouri QB makes an impact on his new team. He, too, is efficient, gets the ball out quickly and is accurate with his ball placement. Plus, hanging in the New Orleans Saints’ quarterback meeting room over the past few years couldn’t have been be a bad thing. He might just challenge Smith for the starting role. It’s safe to say that not only will Kansas City be improved at quarterback, but more importantly, the number of turnovers and mistakes generated from this position will be dramatically decreased from a year ago. That in itself should dramatically improve the Chiefs’ chances of generating more wins.”

Chuck Cook-USA TODAY Sports

Bottom line: The Chiefs got a 26-year-old backup quarterback with upside and Reid thinks he’s a fit for the system. Good signing.

The Chiefs made plenty of other good signings and check out Stacey’s post for a full list and AA’s coverage throughout the week for breakdowns of every player.

The wave of acquisitions has given the Chiefs an all-around stronger roster. We no longer have any gaping holes. In the Draft, we can essentially do whatever we want, which is the strongest possible position.

I, for one, am giddy again, and I haven’t felt that for this team in a good long while.

John Rieger-USA TODAY Sports

The Kansas CIty Chiefs introduced Alex Smith as their new starting QB at Arrowhead Stadium on Wednesday.

There were a number of good quotes and highlights from the presser. The best of which was when Andy Reid said that the Chiefs were “gonna get Alex into the Hall of Fame.”

One of the other interesting bits was that Smith insisted that coming to Kansas City was exactly what he wanted.

“I feel like because of what I’ve gone through, you grow as a player, grow as a person,” Smith said. “I’m ready for this. I can’t say how excited I am for it.”

Smith was benched in San Francisco in favor of his backup Colin Kaepernick. What made Smith’s fate particularly gut wrenching was that he wa shaving the best season of his career. Had he not suffered a concussion and had to sit out a week, he might well still be the starting QB of the 49ers.

But once it became clear to Smith that his time in San Fran was over, he turned his attention to potential new teams…and the Kansas City Chiefs.

“There was no doubt in my mind that this is where I wanted to be,” Smith said. “There was no doubt in my mind. I’m glad it got done.

Hopefully Chiefs fans will be glad the trade got done as well. All Smith has to do is win.

Alex Smith was introduced to the Kansas City media today out at Arrowhead Stadium.

We are hard at work on a few stories framing what was said by GM John Dorsey, head coach Andy Reid and the Chiefs’ new QB himself, Alex Smith.

In the meantime, here are some of the highlights, courtesy of the Arrowhead Addict Twitter account. Enjoy!

Reid: He has tremendous speed. (Donnie Avery)

— Arrowhead Addict (@ArrowheadAddict) March 13, 2013

Looks like Smith will wear #11 with the #Chiefs. Sorry Chris Chambers.

— Arrowhead Addict (@ArrowheadAddict) March 13, 2013

Reid: It’s important now that we jump in and get ourselves ready for the draft.

— Arrowhead Addict (@ArrowheadAddict) March 13, 2013

Reid: I think John’s done a heck of a job setting up and working with the agents to bring in these free agents.

— Arrowhead Addict (@ArrowheadAddict) March 13, 2013

Reid: I think John’s done a heck of a job setting up and working with the agents to bring in these free agents.

— Arrowhead Addict (@ArrowheadAddict) March 13, 2013

Reid: We’re gonna work on getting Alex into the Hall of Fame.

— Arrowhead Addict (@ArrowheadAddict) March 13, 2013

Reid’s Hall of Fame quote came after he was asked if he found the next Len Dawson in Alex Smith.

— Arrowhead Addict (@ArrowheadAddict) March 13, 2013

Dorsey doesn’t want to talk about the trade compensation right now.

— Arrowhead Addict (@ArrowheadAddict) March 13, 2013

Bob Gretz trying to get the Chiefs in trouble with moronic questions about whether or not Smith has seen the playbook in the last 2 weeks.

— Arrowhead Addict (@ArrowheadAddict) March 13, 2013

Smith says he is looking forward to getting to meet Dwayne Bowe.

— Arrowhead Addict (@ArrowheadAddict) March 13, 2013

Dorsey: I think he may be on vacation right now. (on Cassel).

— Arrowhead Addict (@ArrowheadAddict) March 13, 2013

Reid: Drew (Brees) would tell you that Chase pushed him every day that he was there.

— Arrowhead Addict (@ArrowheadAddict) March 13, 2013

Reid: I’ll tell you, Alex, he is the starting QB for the Kansas CIty Chiefs.

— Arrowhead Addict (@ArrowheadAddict) March 13, 2013

Dorsey: Right now Matt (Cassel) is on our roster.

— Arrowhead Addict (@ArrowheadAddict) March 13, 2013

Reid: He’s got a great feel for the pass game. He’s obviously one of the smarter QBs in the National Football League.

— Arrowhead Addict (@ArrowheadAddict) March 13, 2013

Reid: You’ll find out in time, what you’ve got here. (in reference to Smith)

— Arrowhead Addict (@ArrowheadAddict) March 13, 2013

Reid: I did inquire about him (Smith) periodically with the 49ers.

— Arrowhead Addict (@ArrowheadAddict) March 13, 2013

Smith: You see the talent that’s here. You see the potential.

— Arrowhead Addict (@ArrowheadAddict) March 13, 2013

Smith: There was no doubt that I wanted to be here. It wasn’t even close.

— Arrowhead Addict (@ArrowheadAddict) March 13, 2013

Smith: I made if very clear to the 49ers that I wanted to play.

— Arrowhead Addict (@ArrowheadAddict) March 13, 2013

Smith: I can’t say how excited I am for it. Thankful for the opportunity.

— Arrowhead Addict (@ArrowheadAddict) March 13, 2013

Smith: I’m ready for this.

— Arrowhead Addict (@ArrowheadAddict) March 13, 2013

Dorsey: We feel very fortunate that Alex will be a member of the Chiefs franchise for years to come.

— Arrowhead Addict (@ArrowheadAddict) March 13, 2013

Dorsey: Since the beginning of this process, we’ve always had our eye on Alex.

— Arrowhead Addict (@ArrowheadAddict) March 13, 2013

September 16, 2012; San Francisco, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers quarterback Alex Smith (11) passes the ball during the fourth quarter against the Detroit Lions at Candlestick Park. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

When the Kansas City hired former Philadelphia Eagles head coach Andy Reid to be take over the same roll with the Chiefs, Reid delivered a line in his introductory press conference that garnered quite a few laughs.

“I’ve got to find the next Len Dawson,” Reid joked.

Well, Reid did get a new QB in KC but whether or not he is the next Len Dawson is up for debate.

The Chiefs introduced former San Francisco 49ers QB Alex Smith to the media today. During the presser, Reid was asked if he had indeed found the next Len Dawson in Smith.

Reid paused and there was some laughter in the room.

“Well, listen,” Reid Started. “Len Dawson’s sitting right here. Len Dawson’s in the Hall of Fame.” (more laughter) “We’re gonna work on getting Alex into the Hall of Fame.

It was definitely the best moment of the entire press conference. I have to handle it to Reid, he has the best comedic timing of any Chiefs coach since Herm Edwards. I mean, Haley and Romeo were hilarious in their own right but I don’t think it was intentional.

What do you think, Addicts? Will Alex Smith join Len Dawson in the Hall of Fame?

October 18, 2012; San Francisco, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers quarterback Alex Smith (11) calls a play against the Seattle Seahawks in the third quarter at Candlestick Park. The 49ers defeated the Seahawks 13-6. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports

The Kansas City Chiefs will introduce new QB Alex Smith today at a press conference at Arrowhead.

The presser starts at 5 pm and will be broadcast live on KCChiefs.com. NFL.com will also show the presser but keep in mind they usually get bored and cut out before it is over.

This is your open thread to talk with other Chiefs Addicts while you watch. We’ll have a breakdown after it’s done.

What questions do you want to hear Smith answer?

Jan 29, 2013; New Orleans, LA, USA; San Francisco 49ers quarterback Alex Smith is interviewed during media day in preparation for Super Bowl XLVII against the Baltimore Ravens at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

The Kansas City Chiefs will introduce former San Francisco 49ers QB Alex Smith to the media today at 5 pm central time.

The Chiefs and 49ers made the trade for Smith official yesterday when the new league year began.

KCChiefs.com announced that the press conference would take place and also posted some quotes from GM John Dorsey, head coach Andy Reid and from Smith himself.

Dorsey:

After many discussions with the 49ers and Alex, we were able to come to an agreement that we felt was mutually beneficial.

Alex wanted to be a member of the Chiefs; we are excited to have him and we think he can help improve this team.

Reid:

Alex is going to fit in well here in Kansas City, and we are excited to have him on board.

We’ve seen him play at a high level and he can be very impressive. We are anxious to get him in the building and get him started learning our system.

Smith:

I am very blessed and thrilled to be joining the Chiefs family.

I’d like to thank the Hunt family, John Dorsey and Coach Reid for giving me the opportunity to play football for such a proud franchise. I know from experience that Chiefs fans are among the greatest in the NFL and I’m really looking forward to Sundays at Arrowhead Stadium.

We’ll have a live thread for Smith’s presser later today.

I wonder if the Chiefs will lock Smith in a room upstairs and make him speak to the media via a speaker phone like Scott Pioli used to do.

Oct. 29, 2012; Glendale, AZ, USA; San Francisco 49ers quarterback (11) Alex Smith calls a play against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. The 49ers defeated the Cardinals 24-3. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

We all knew it was comign and now it is official.

Alex Smith is the new starting QB of the Kansas City Chiefs.

The news came in the form of a tweet from the 49ers:

It’s official, the #49ers have traded Alex Smith to the Chiefs for two draft picks. #FreeAgency twitter.com/49ers/status/3…

— San Francisco 49ers (@49ers) March 12, 2013

Unfortunately the 49ers do not go into details of what the two draft picks are. It is believed to be KC’s second-round pick this year (#34 overall) and a conditional third-roud pick in 2014. That pick is believed to be a third that can become a second based on the conditions.

We will keep an eye out for the final details of the trade. Now that the deal is faxed into the league office, hopefully someone will leak the specifics.

For more on free agency happenings around the league, check out FanSided.com and NFL Spin Zone, two of FanSided’s best and fastest sources for NFL news.

Last week, I wrote that I was not opposed to acquiring Alex Smith per se, just against looking to him the “answer” to our quarterback woes. It appears that the team has done exactly that.

This post is scheduled to come out at 4 p.m. Central, but as I write this, we do not yet know whether the franchise tag has been used on any of the Chiefs’ three most important free agents – WR Dwayne Bowe, LT Brandon Albert or P Dustin Colquitt.

The early signs and reports are that the Chiefs will likely franchise Bowe, let Albert walk, and draft LT Luke Joeckel 1^st overall. I’ve read countless articles and analyses for and against the trade (most of them for), and my thoughts on this scenario have not changed. Last week I wrote, “if what we end up with is San Fran’s average-to-above-average castaway and a replacement for Brandon Albert who’s unproven in the NFL for the 1st overall pick and, say, a 3rd of 4th this year, it will be hard to deem this offseason a success.”

Even I didn’t think Smith would cost a 2^nd and a 2014 3^rd, as has been reported.

Since 1987, the year I was born, the Chiefs have only started two quarterbacks they drafted themselves – Doug Hudson (7^th round, 1987) and Brodie Croyle (3^rd round, 2006). In fact, since I have been alive, the Chiefs have only twice drafted a quarterback higher than the 3rd round – Mike Elkins in the 2nd in 1989 and Matt Blundin in the 2^nd in 1992. The last time the Chiefs used a 1^st-round pick on a quarterback was exactly 30 years ago in 1983.

Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

None of this has anything to do with Smith, GM John Dorsey or HC Andy Reid, except that it meant that this trade was automatically going to be met with disappointment by a large swath of Chiefs nation.

I hope this move works out, I really do. But, history and precedent have not been kind to the Chiefs when acquiring quarterbacks in this fashion.

I think Trent Green was worth the 1^st-rounder we traded for him and I suppose Joe Montana, who got us our last playoff victory 20 years ago, was worth that 1^st-rounder too by some measure. Green gave us five (mostly) competitive seasons and Montana gave us two before inevitably retiring.

I guess my question is what will Smith have to do to earn what we gave for him? Playoff wins, surely. A Super Bowl? How many years do we expect him to play for us? If we win a sufficient number of games next year, then that conditional 3^rd-rounder becomes a 2nd which, given that we already gave the 49ers the #34 overall pick, means that we will have gotten Alex Smith for the equivalent of a 1^st-round pick in terms of draft capital.

In Montana’s last year, the Chiefs traded a 4^th-round pick to San Fran for his former backup there, Steve Bono. In his first season starting for Kansas City, Bono had a pro-bowl season and went 13-3. Would that be an adequate return for the draft haul we gave up for Smith?

The Chiefs went 9-7 the next year and cut him in favor of another San Fran backup, this time Elvis Grbac. In college he twice won the Big Ten passing efficiency award, holding Michigan’s record for that mark until being passed up by John Navarre and later Chad Henne. He also went 13-3, but really hit his mark of efficiency in 2000 throwing for 4,169 yards with a 59.6 completion rate … in a year we won seven games.

Efficiency wasn’t enough, so we traded for Trent Green in 2001 who got us a 13-3 season in 2003 (are you starting to see the pattern here?) and a playoff loss. Then he got injured and we opted for his 33-years-young backup Damon Huard, who got us to another playoff loss. When Huard and Croyle washed out we traded for Matt Cassel, who got us one more good season, one more playoff loss.

These guys were all above average quarterbacks with some physical limitations but were seen as good decision-makers that took care of the football. They all got us to the playoffs at some point before we realized they wouldn’t take us any further than that.

Look, this isn’t a science and it’s not like the Chiefs have just been pressing the wrong button over and over again. But, this mentality that the Chiefs are just one safe, limited quarterback away from crawling to the promised land seems to have kept the franchise in neutral for practically my entire life.

If Alex Smith takes us to the playoffs next year, I will be overjoyed, but I’m not sure that alone will make this trade worthwhile. Because of the Smith trade, the Chiefs will almost certainly be once again forgoing the roll of the dice that is drafting a QB in the first two rounds – something we haven’t tried for 21 years.

Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports

Think about that. By the time the Chiefs do (maybe) pick a QB next year, it is likely that this quarterback will not have been alive when the Chiefs last drafted a QB so high.

A lot of commentators have been dismissive of the large group of Chiefs fans that are nervous, disappointed or downright nauseous about the Smith trade, claiming that we’re all just blind Geno lovers. As a passenger on the Geno bandwagon, I would like to respectably disagree. We Alex-Smith pessimists are merely those fans who hoped desperately that the team would depart from its philosophy of the past.

So, I ask again, because I’m not sure I have the answer myself, what does Alex Smith have to do to be a good acquisition? How many starts, playoff victories and championship appearances are adequate compensation? Will you be satisfied if he is our next Trent Green?

Because he’s about to begin his 8^th NFL season and won’t be with us forever. Right now, he is our “answer” at the position. He has to be. We have no one to develop beside him, and probably won’t until at least next year.

Last week I told everyone that despite speculation that the KC Chiefs might be interested in Alex Smith I was going to ride the “Geno Smith to KC” bandwagon until the wheels fell off. With it now all but certain that Alex Smith will be the next KC QB it appears that my bandwagon ride was short lived. This trade not only caused the wheels to fall off the bandwagon, it likely burnt the whole thing to the ground.

As regular readers may know, my outlook is usually a positive one. I like to take enjoyment out of following the Chiefs (despite their recent efforts to make that impossible) so I don’t usually like to dwell on the bad or the frustrating. There are usually enough voices out there spelling out every misstep the team makes anyway. That having been said, I want to take a second to explain why this trade initially upset me so much.

It’s NOT that I don’t think Alex Smith can be a good NFL starting QB.

It’s NOT that they gave up their #34 draft pick for him (although that does sting).

It’s that the dream of seeing the Chiefs draft a QB that turns into a star and leads them to a Super Bowl has been crushed. I’m 35 years old and have no memory of Todd Blackledge as a Kansas City Chief. The first QB that I remember is Steve DeBerg. That means that in my entire lifetime as a Chiefs fan I have never seen them commit a high draft pick to a QB. I have watched year after year as other teams drafted QBs that eventually led them to championships. I wasn’t thinking that KC would land the next Tom Brady or Peyton Manning in this draft or even the next Andrew Luck or RG3, but the next Eli Manning, Ben Roethlisberger, or Joe Flacco seemed at least possible.

That’s what drafting Geno Smith #1 overall would have been for me. It would have opened the door to the possibility of that dream coming true for the team I loved. Was I confident that Geno would turn into that guy? No, but I was willing to chance that for a shot at greatness. In my opinion the best way to win a Super Bowl is to hit on a big time QB and you can only hit on one if you’re willing to try. This trade meant that for the foreseeable future KC is not willing to risk it. They’re going to play it safe. The realization that this dream is now dead took the wind out my sails. To be honest, it was probably two full days before I even started reading any Chiefs related material again because it was just too depressing for me.

I’d love to sit here and say that I’m over it now. That I no longer feel that way and that I’m now 100% convinced that trading for Alex Smith was the right thing to do, but that would be a lie. I still feel bummed about the loss of possibility that I saw in Geno Smith but now that my “I don’t want Alex Smith! I want our OWN QB!” hissy fit is about over the rational part of my brain is starting to see the possible upside in Alex Smith.

First, Andy Reid and John Dorsey went to the combine and took a really close and hard look at the QBs that are available in this draft. They reportedly met with 8 different QBs while at the combine (Barkley, Bray, Dysert, Glennon, Manuel, Nassib, Smith, and Wilson). After watching these guys on tape, seeing them throw up close at the combine, and meeting with them face to face they went straight back to KC and traded for Alex Smith. That says something to me. Despite all the potential that “I” see in Geno Smith, the Chiefs weren’t interested. The Chiefs would rather have Alex Smith.

The “hissy fit” throwing emotional part of me says that the reason they want Alex over Geno is that they are playing it “safe” and are scared of what might happen if Geno didn’t pan out. However, as days go by the rational part of my brain has started to jump in with a Lee Corso-esque “Not so fast my friend”.

Is picking Alex Smith over Geno Smith really the safe and easy choice? These guys are taking over a team whose fan base flew banners over the stadium in protest over the old regime. This old regime’s #1 crime against the fans was sticking with a QB that they traded a 2nd round pick to get. The fans wore black to the games and left the stadium half empty for most of the season. These fans, the people whose money pays for their multi-million dollar operation are SCREAMING at the top of their lungs for these guys to end the 30 year drought of not drafting our own franchise QB and they still went straight home from the combine and traded for Alex Smith.

These guys aren’t stupid. They had to know that the average fan that was screaming for Scott Pioli to get fired would see the parallels between the Cassel and Smith trades and freak out. They had to know that trading for Alex Smith and having it fail would infuriate the fan base 100 times more than drafting a QB that failed would. Playing a rookie QB would actually be “safer” for their job security because people wouldn’t expect the rookie to be good right away and if he never panned out they’d still get credit with a lot of fans for at least trying.

That tells me that this isn’t about playing it safe. It says to me that these guys honestly believe that Alex Smith has a better chance of leading the Chiefs to a Super Bowl than Geno Smith or any other QB in this draft does.

I may not like that answer, I may not want to agree with that answer, but that’s the only logical explanation that makes sense, and this is coming from a guy that was in a full blown “I WANT MY GENO!!!” hissy fit just a few days ago.

The other thing that the logical part of my brain has started to pick up on is how it’s not just about them not liking the rookie QBs, they actually must see something in Alex Smith that they like. Why you ask? Because John Dorsey and Andy Reid have direct ties to other QBs that I’m sure could have been had for the same deal that they gave San Francisco, those QBs being Matt Flynn and Nick Foles. I know the Eagles have said that they want to keep Foles, but let’s be honest, he doesn’t fit Chip Kelly’s system and had KC offered them the #34 pick they could have taken a QB like EJ Manuel for Kelly to develop behind Mike Vick. Dorsey helped draft Flynn in Green Bay and saw him up close when he was there. Reid drafted Foles just last season and knows what he’s capable of. Despite these personal connections the Chiefs went after Smith. That tells me they see something in him that they think gives them the best chance to win.

So what could that be?

The emotional and ticked off part of me says that it’s to come be a play it safe, game manager, who will just hand the ball off to Jamaal Charles and whose personal contribution to the team will simply be not turning the ball over.

But then that pesky logical side of my brain starts sounding like Lee Corso again.

“Couldn’t they have trained a rookie to hand the ball off and not throw risky passes? Why give up valuable draft picks and enrage the fan base for that?”

I mean they couldn’t possibly think that Alex Smith could actually contribute to winning games, could they? Clearly Smith’s success in SF was all about Jim Harbaugh, Frank Gore, Vernon Davis, and their defense.

That’s what I was thinking until yesterday. Then two things happened, I read THIS blog post from a 49ers fan stating that Alex Smith’s improvement actually started the year before Harbaugh got there when they fired offensive coordinator Jimmy Raye (who KC fans know all about), and then I got an email from my step brother/fellow Chiefs die hard, Cory Zellers (props on the excellent info). The email included some numbers that he had crunched. Here’s a direct quote from his email explaining what he did.

I dug into his (Alex Smith) stats and settled on the last 2 seasons (including post season) plus 2010 after he returned from injury in week 14. This gave me a nice round 32 games (2 seasons).

Ultimately I wanted to take his best play (last 32 games) and ratio the attempts (and remaining stats) up to the average # of attempts for an Andy Reid offense. I know Smith was a “game manager” in SF and Reid has had pass first offenses his whole career. I knew there was going to be a big difference in number of attempts, but I was a little surprised at the results. I pulled together all of Reid’s seasons in Philly and threw out his first year (Pederson and McNabb) to come up with an average season’s passing stats.

I then ratio-ed up Alex Smith’s avg season from the last 32 games from 416 attempts (per season) to 562 attempts (Reid’s avg season). The results were not earth shattering, but I would be pretty happy with a season like that out of Alex Smith.

Here are the results. If you take the completion percentage (63%), yards per attempt (7.5), and percentage of TD passes (4.8%) and interceptions (1.3%) that Alex Smith has had over his past 32 games and increased the attempts to the typical Andy Reid season you get a season that looks like this:

354-562 (63%), 4,189 yards (7.5 YPA), 27 TDs and 7 INTs.

That’s a pretty good season by any standard and that’s what I believe John Dorsey and Andy Reid think they are bringing to Kansas City. For a basis of comparison, the closest QB numbers to that from last season are probably Matt Schaub’s. Schaub went 350-544 (64.3%) for 4,008 yards (7.4 YPA), 22 TDs, and 12 INTs. Would you have been okay if the Chiefs traded their 2nd round pick for Schaub?

I know what some of you are thinking: “Lyle, the reason Smith was able to put up that kind of completion percentage and protect the football is because of the San Francisco run game and defense that their team was built around, if you take them away and put the ball in Smith’s hands 562 times, he’s going to fail!”

I thought so too before I got the email above. I started thinking about Reid’s offense. Reid is often criticized for not running the ball enough, so it’s safe to say that Smith isn’t going to be following the same “run the ball and play defense” mentality that they had in San Francisco. He’s going to have the ball in his hands more. It got me thinking about another QB that switched teams under similar circumstances at a similar point in his career. This QB was seen as a solid starter but was let go because the team had a young QB that was seen as having a greater upside. In his two seasons directly before leaving he averaged 450 attempts per season, about 3,368 yards/season, had about a 65% completion percentage, and averaged 7.5 yards per attempt. Those numbers are pretty similar to what Smith has done over his past 32 games played. This QB went to a new team with a chip on his shoulder and a coach that built his offense around his abilities and his attempts jumped up to 554 in his first season with the new team and he threw for 4,418 yards which was over 800 yards more than his previous career high. Overnight he went from being “just an average NFL QB that lacks the elite talent to win Super Bowls” to one of the most prolific passers in NFL history, and eventually a Super Bowl champion. That QB is Drew Brees.

At this point I have probably lost all credibility with some of you who are now laughing at what an unbelievable Kool Aid drinking homer I am. Let me be clear, I am not saying I think Alex Smith is going to turn into Drew Brees. I’m not even saying I think Alex Smith will be successful in KC. I’m saying I think Dorsey and Reid think Smith will be successful in KC. I’m saying that I don’t think they are bringing Smith here to be Matt Cassel 2.0 or to just be some “play it safe” place holder who can help KC float around .500 while they wait to find the REAL franchise QB that they can win playoff games with. I think their plan is to make Alex Smith KC’s version of Drew Brees as apposed to KC’s version of Brad Johnson or Trent Dilfer.

I don’t know if this will work and we’ll win a lot of games with Smith or if he’ll go down in flames like Matt Cassel did.

The idea of Alex Smith becoming the next Drew Brees is probably just a dream, crazy talk. But is it any more unrealistic than the idea of Brees becoming one of the most prolific QBs in NFL history when he left San Diego? Wouldn’t most experts have said that Brees wasn’t capable of doing it? Wouldn’t they have said that his success in San Diego had more to do with Norv Turner, LaDanian Tomlinson, and Antonio Gates than Brees’ ability to play QB? Is Dorsey and Reid’s plan of building a Super Bowl winning team around Alex Smith any more crazy than my dream of them turning Geno Smith into the next Aaron Rodgers?

Look, I’m still bummed that they won’t be drafting Geno Smith with the first overall pick. I’m still stinging from the loss of that dream (and the #34 pick). I still have my doubts about Alex Smith being a QB that can take KC to where they want to go, but once I came to the conclusion that Alex Smith was not brought here to be the next Matt Cassel (a QB that the team had to work around) and that John Dorsey and Andy Reid must see Alex Smith as a QB that they can build around it at least made the future a lot more interesting. Once again I’m back to waiting anxiously for the next breaking Chiefs news to hit so I can see what else the team has planned.

That’s a start. It’s certainly an improvement over the “hissy fit” I was throwing a few days ago.

So where are you at Addicts? Still in “hissy fit” mode like I was? Excited to see what Smith can do? Taking a wait and see approach? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below.

As always, thanks for reading and GO CHIEFS!!!!!!!!!!!

Kansas City Chiefs GM John Dorsey and head coach Andy Reid preside over a Chiefs Kingdom that is as unstable and divided as perhaps any other time in the last two decades. Matters became even more complicated yesterday when the news broke that the team has decided to hitch its wagon to 49ers QB Alex Smith, for the foreseeable future.

The 2012 season was all about change, as far as Chiefs fans were concerned. The KC faithful wanted a new QB, a new coach and a new GM.

And they got them.

Yet, among a fan base that protested so aggressively for change in 2012, going so far as to fly banners over Arrowhead Stadium before games, no amount of change seems to be good enough.

As editor of this site, I interact with dozens of Chiefs fans on a daily basis, whether it be in the comments of our posts, on our Facebook page or through our Twitter account. In the recent weeks since the arrival of  Dorsey and Reid, I’ve noticed that Chiefs fans seem to still be feeling a great deal of discontent.

Just weeks ago, all KC fans seemed to want was for former GM Scott Pioli to be fired and for incumbent starting QB Matt Cassel to be sent out of town. The once patient and supportive fans, many of whom proudly wrote or stated the words “in Pioli we trust” in 2009 and 2010, turned on the new regime in 2012 when it became clear that their trust was misguided.

Unlike in 2009, when long-time GM Carl Peterson and bumbling head coach Herm Edwards were ousted from Kansas City, Chiefs fans haven’t been as quick to cozy up to Dorsey and Reid as they were to Pioli and Haley. Peterson had been a fixture in Kansas City for so long that any replacement was likely to be given a hero’s welcome. So when Scott Pioli came riding into town, his Super Bowl rings glistening in the sunlight, the smooth-talking GM from New England was able to interject a fair amount of propaganda into the minds of his new subjects.

Pioli quickly injected buzzwords and slogans into the Chiefs blogosphere and radio airwaves by repeating his mantras over and over and by making a few well-position contacts in the media. By 2012, you would have been hard-pressed to find a fan that hadn’t heard the words “right 53″ and “process” and “substance over sizzle” from either Pioli himself or their fellow fans.

I even wrote a column about the seemingly blind Scott Pioli following in May of 2011.

It was called “In Pioli We Trust: A Ridiculous Notion.”

Look, there is nothing wrong with trust. There is nothing wrong with initially deferring to the expertise of the guys getting paid to make the decisions. There is nothing wrong with being passionate and hoping that every move your GM makes is the right one. Fan is short for fanatic. This website is called Arrowhead ADDICT. We get it.

But to go around muttering “In Pioli We Trust” after every move the man makes is not only short sighted but it closes one off to any sort of useful critical thinking. Attacking another fan and questioning their devotion to their favorite team because they dared question the organization’s moves is the same kind of childish bullying you’d expect to find at your local junior high.

Chiefs Nation has come a long way since 2011. The pendulum has swung so far in the other direct that it appears nothing will satisfy Chiefs fans.

In fact, the fans seem so split on what they think the new regime should do to fix the 2014 mess Pioli and last year’s head coach Romeo Crennel left behind, that if left in the hands of the masses, the QB for the 2013 Kansas City Chiefs would be:

Nobody.

We like to look at things from every angle on Arrowhead Addict. It’s been a tradition on this site since the beginning to explore different viewpoints and scenarios. This offseason, however, while some of our suggested scenarios are more popular than others, there doesn’t seem to be a single solution that most fans agree on.

To illustrate this, I took to Twitter to ask the opinions of fans on a number of Chiefs-related topics. Keep in mind that I did this just hours before the Alex Smith trade was announced.

The Chiefs should draft Geno Smith #1.

@arrowheadaddict there is no better option!!!

— Jerry Mason (@J_rome101) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict if they can’t get Alex Smith for a reasonable trade, you’ve got to. What other options do we have? We can draft a QB later

— Cody Breuer (@1509Cody) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict absolutely love the idea! He looked like a stud at #NFLCombine sound like he got intangibles to give away!!

— Joey Butler (@rabidcop109) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict Atrocious.

— Cameron Hastings (@CameronHastings) February 27, 2013

 

@arrowheadaddict as long as that means keeping Albert then do it!!

— Jason P (@jpp_77) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict 6’2, average accuracy, Alex smith fits our offense perfectly, and we have more major needs (LT, CB, WR) — Joe Mike Favoroso (@Favoroso10) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict I’d rather the Chiefs draft Tyler Wilson in the second-round. I see a lot of upside with Wilson. — Brandon Fix (@xX_Flash_Xx) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict sure he ran a good 40 time, but he played his last year in the big 12, all offense and no defense. Had 1 great game.

— Cameron Hastings (@CameronHastings) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict seems like the top of the draft is filled with bad ideas…hence wanting to trade out, and nobody wanting to trade up.

— TheFilmRoom (@TheFilmRoom) February 27, 2013

Should the Chiefs trade for Alex Smith? As long as they don’t give up a pick higher than a 3rd?

@arrowheadaddict I’ve moved around to “No.” Too big of a contract for a back-up. Not good enough player to be the long-term starter. — Nicholas Clayton (@ClaytonNicholas) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict 3rd is the max I’d give.I wish they could part with him for just a 4th. — Edward Pendleton (@TenEightEP) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict yes! Then draft McCarron, Wilson, or Murray later in the draft.

— Cody Breuer (@1509Cody) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict do it.

— levy (@molevy24_7) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict Reid would get him to his ceiling. If they believe that ceiling is a consistent pro-bowler (even Cassel made it once) do it — Edward Pendleton (@TenEightEP) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict nope, too much is needed this year (OL, CB, LB), possibly a 4th round pick though — They Love Nosa (@EkeTheGreat3) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict no…I think Kolb has a chance to be cut…and UFA stop gaps like Campbell, Hasselbeck may be available.

— TheFilmRoom (@TheFilmRoom) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict Dude has zero swagger, zero heart, zero leadership abilities. I dont like him at all.Chiefs fans will be very disappointed

— ♠ESSESS♌ (@scooterloc303) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict Alex smith isn’t a great QB. I’d rather us draft geno and take Matt Moore from Miami — K. Sparks(@Sully_sparks) February 27, 2013

Even for a third, it was clear that a fair portion of the folks I talked to were not sold on Alex Smith. So when the news broke that Smith had been acquired for what is believed to be a second-round selection and 2013 and what could turn into a second-round selection in 2014, there was a fair amount of outrage.

I then asked folks if they trusted Andy Reid and John Dorsey to make the right decision. Here are some of the responses I received.

Do you trust John Dorsey and Andy Reid to make the right decision, no matter what they decide?

@arrowheadaddict Yes.I trust them to make the right decision…

— David Thresher (@Dazdpgc329) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict I’m hesitantly optimistic — FanmanKC (@fanmankc) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict I have no clue, I treated poili when he started, never Haley though — Sean Combrink(@seancombrink) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict As long as they at least draft a QB in the first 3 rounds, plus adding a veteran.

— Kevin Reed (@Reedk12) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict I trust in no one, no matter what they decide. They get the benefit of the doubt, and I will watch with healthy skepticism.

— Nicholas Clayton (@ClaytonNicholas) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict Yes.Let it all play out before jumping to conclusions. — Ryan Schave (@Schave29) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict I trust them mistakes will be made no matter the staff though gotta give faith in our management or they will never succeed — Carl Meck (@carlmeck1) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict what was the point in hiring them if we don’t trust them? They’ll do what’s right.

— Alex Boyer (@AlexBoyer90) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict no…eagles were awful, Reid thinks he can win with any QB

— K. Sparks(@Sully_sparks) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict more than Pioli, yes, yes, yes. — Adrian Waller (@awaller1990) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict no…that’s too much to ask…they will make mistakes, as early as this draft…hope averages in their favor. — TheFilmRoom (@TheFilmRoom) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict you don’t give trust away for free. It must be earned.

— charlieg (@funderpunt) February 27, 2013

Do you trust Dorsey and Reid as much as you trusted Pioli and Haley when they arrived?

@arrowheadaddict Same

— Kevin Reed (@Reedk12) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict Reid=more; Dorsey=slightly less. Pioli was more highly regarded coming in…proven wrong later. — Jeffrey B. Herman (@JBHermanMD) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict I’ve been wronged. I’ll never trust again. — Nicholas Clayton (@ClaytonNicholas) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict I trust Reid more than Crennel. I respect Dorsey more than Pioli…I wouldn’t call it trust yet.

— Scott Mahurin (@Esinem79) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict more for Reid over Haley. About same for Dorsey & Pioli

— Nate Taylor (@taylonr) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict I do trust them, but being a Kansas City sports fan makes me skeptical of everything if I’m honest — Jeff Herr (@TheJeffReport) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict let me change my vote to a flat NO. I can’t get my head around his contract. $7.5M too much for Cassel 2.0 — Scott Mahurin (@Esinem79) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict less because I thought Pioli was a genius when hired. Boy was I wrong!

— Joshua Yates (@joshujy) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict back then I felt like I HAD to trust since Pioli represented the Patriot Way, even though I loathe the Pats

— Adrian Waller (@awaller1990) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict Dorsey seems like pioli to me. Never tells us what we want to hear. Very low key. Not a fan — Louie Thompson (@Louie_Thompson) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict in the back of my head, yes, but at the same time dorsey has done nothing as GM of the Chiefs for me not to trust him. — levy (@molevy24_7) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict We’ve been burned before. It’s always good to be a little cautious, but it shouldn’t stop you from being optimistic either.

— Mike (@vidae01) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict I’m more cautious now because I feel like a spouse that just got cheated on. It’s hard to trust.

— Michael Tavis (@MichaelTavis) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict more cautious now b/c of Pioli debacle and lack of consensus top pick. — Jeffrey B. Herman (@JBHermanMD) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict more. Greater history/track record of success — Jeff Herr (@TheJeffReport) February 27, 2013

Who do you want to be the starting QB of the Kansas City Chiefs in 2013?

@arrowheadaddict I want Ryan Mallett! Screw Alex Smith, do you remember hay we did to him when he came to arrowhead? #NoThanks

— Spencer Mathews (@DiSpencer4Hire) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict Geno Smith

— Ted Glass (@TedGlassKC) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict Geno Smith. — Mike (@vidae01) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict Smith. Alex Smith. — levy (@molevy24_7) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict Barkley or Alex Smith

— Kevin Reed (@Reedk12) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict #A.Smith

— Da #Chiefsnation (@Chieffan28) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict Geno. — Edward Pendleton (@TenEightEP) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict Smith, either Alex or Geno. — Carl Meck (@carlmeck1) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict nick foles

— Grant White (@grantwhiteshark) February 27, 2013

Aaron Rodgers “@arrowheadaddict: Last one. Just give me a name. Who do you want to be the starting QB of the Kansas City Chiefs in 2013.”

— K. Sparks(@Sully_sparks) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict Alex smith with geno as the back up.

— Michael Tavis (@MichaelTavis) February 27, 2013

Matt Cassel – @arrowheadaddict: Last one. Just give me a name. Who do you want to be the starting QB of the Kansas City Chiefs in 2013.

— Chris Allen (@CA_AllDay702) February 27, 2013

The group seemed to slightly favor Geno Smith, which is understandable. Chiefs fans have seen just about every scenario, save drafting a first round QB, fail miserably in Kansas City. They’ve seen a parade of former San Francisco QBs brought in, only to fail. They’ve seen a high-profile trade for Matt Cassel fail. Drafting a QB in the first round, just to draft a QB in the first round, isn’t guaranteed to pay off. While Chiefs fans are smart enough to realize that, much like when Pioli replaced Carl Peterson, I think things have been so bad that anything different automatically becomes more appealing.

As the comments above showed, nobody is running around saying “in Dorsey I trust.” The fans want to believe the men running their favorite team are going to do the right but years of failure seems to have tempered expectations.

When Scott Pioli traded a second-round selection for Matt Cassel and Mike “intangibles” Vrabel, the reaction in KC was mostly positive. There were murmurs of the “draft your own QB”  argument but for the most part, as I recall anyway, fans were excited about the possibility of acquiring a franchise QB in Cassel.

Dorsey and Reid aren’t like to be given the same level of fan patience that their predecessors enjoyed. Pioli and Cassel were able to turn in a 2-14 season in 2009 and they emerge relatively unscathed. I think this was, in large part, due to Pioli’s propaganda and the misguided trust of a frustrated fan base. Chiefs fans were sold a bill of goods by Pioli that they had to be patient while he “rebuilt” their team. They were asked to allow the “process” to run its course.

Well, when the process was complete, Pioli left the Chiefs exactly how he found them.

2-14.

Just as Pioli and co. received their fair share of unearned trust, Reid and Dorsey are being served up a cold dish of apprehension from Chiefs fans who have eaten at this restaurant before.

I don’t envy the new regime. They were facing a lose/lose situation.

If they drafted a QB No. 1 and the QB busted, they would have look like fools for reaching for the position when all the experts (well most of them) the 2013 QB class just wasn’t very good.

If they pass on Geno Smith, which it is almost a certainty that they will, and he is drafted by the Raiders a couple picks later and Smith develops into a star, while the KC brass goes with an Alex Smith, they will be driven out of town faster than you can say “Romeo Crennel”

If they had tried to build their team around a second-round QB from a weak QB draft class and fail, they’ll be equally panned as if they had reached for the position at No. 1.

We don’t know exactly how the Alex Smith trade will work out in KC. We don’t know which team will draft Geno Smith and Matt Barkley and we don’t know what kind of careers they and the other QBs in this draft class, will have.

Chiefs fans were so divided on what they thought  Reid and Dorsey should do, there was going to be a sizable portion of them that were upset no matter what happened at the QB position.

I’ve seen plenty of angry tweets and comments calling the new regime a bunch of fools. I’ve also received messages from fans stating their support and trust of the new regime.

Now that Reid and Dorsey’s vision for the Chiefs is beginning to take shape, it is important for fans to take a lesson from the Scott Pioli era. Now isn’t the time  to throw Dorsey and Reid to the wolves based on the failures of the men that have come before them.

On the other hand, Chiefs fans have no choice but to demand that Dorsey and Reid earn the same level of trust that Pioli was given merely for showing up four years ago. Trust earned, not simply for doing something new, like selecting a QB in the first round, or through propaganda-laced catch phrases and buzzwords. Trust earned, not simply because they aren’t the Scott Pioli regime and because Alex Smith isn’t Matt Cassel.

They’ll have to earn their trust the old-fashioned way: by winning.

Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Kansas City Chiefs fans, on the whole, don’t appear to be too happy about the news yesterday that the team plans to trade for 49ers QB Alex Smith.

But that doesn’t mean Smith’s new teammates don’t like the idea.

Right tackle Eric Winston, who has never been shy of expressing himself to the media, weighed in on the trade yesterday via the USA Today.

“It’s about winning,” Winston said. “Alex is a guy who’s been there and has what it takes. Alex can beat you a lot of different ways. He’s a lot more athletic than people give him credit for. It’s an exciting time with all the new people coming in. It was definitely a change of direction the organization felt we needed to go in.”

Winston also touched briefly on the future of his teammate, QB Matt Cassel.

“I have a friendship with Matt Cassel. Obviously, you had the sense they were probably going to go in a different direction just because of the totality of all that’s happened. But at the same time, you realize it’s going to cost some of your friends their jobs,” Winston said. “Obviously, the organization wanted to bring in new blood. You know that going in. You know everybody is up for review and that’s just how it is. For me, it’s personally bittersweet because I believe in Matt. I think Cassel can get it done. Maybe it will be a great change for him and he can go somewhere else where he can get a fresh start as well.”

It is nice for Winston to speak up for Cassel. The fact of the matter is, Cassel hasn’t gotten it done.

Unfortunately, despite his recent success, a great number of Chiefs fans seem to think Alex Smith’s Chiefs career will end the same way as Cassel’s.

In failure.

Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports

The Kansas City Chiefs are at it again, once again dealing for another team’s backup quarterback while seeking a solution for their problems under center. Four years ago, it was Matt Cassel, and now it’s Alex Smith. According to sources, the Chiefs and San Francisco 49ers agreed to a deal that will send Smith to Kansas City, though the deal won’t be official until March 12.

On the one hand, it makes sense that new Chiefs head coach Andy Reid looked at this April’s draft and realized that there’s no franchise savior at QB. Geno Smith will probably be the first QB off the board, but as I wrote in my combine review, his tape shows inconsistent accuracy. There are times when he looks fully under control, but other times where his throws are all over the place. There’s no way Reid could’ve felt confident with Geno Smith as his Week 1 starter in 2013.

ESPN

Kansas City Chiefs players are preparing to rally around quarterback Alex Smith once his trade from the San Francisco 49ers is finalized after the new league year begins March 12.

“I know I’m going to do everything I can to help him,” Chiefs right tackle Eric Winston told USA TODAY Sports on Wednesday.

The Chiefs, under new coach Andy Reid and new general manager John Dorsey, finalized an agreement to trade San Francisco their second-round draft pick and a conditional draft pick in 2014 in exchange for Smith, the No. 1 pick in the 2005 draft who was unseated as the 49ers starter in November.

USA Today

Kansas City will trade its second-round pick in the 2013 draft — the second selection (No. 34 overall) in the round — as well as another conditional mid-round pick in 2014 to acquire Smith from San Francisco, a league source told ESPN.

The 49ers now own 15 picks in the 2013 draft.

As a result of the trade, the Chiefs are expected to release former starting quarterback Matt Cassel, league sources told ESPN. Cassel has two years remaining on a $63 million, six-year deal he signed with Kansas City after he was acquired in a trade from the Patriots in 2009. He failed to live up to the lofty contract, however, and was benched during the 2012 season.

ESPN.com

“It was bittersweet,” Pam Smith said. “It was hard. Alex had worked long and hard and been through a lot of coaching turnover, and a lot of issues … injuries. It seems like things were really clicking, and he was playing at an exceptional high level. It was hard.”

Pam, a deputy director for San Diego County Health and Human Services, and her husband, Doug, a retired high school principal, attend every one of Alex’s games.

She said Kansas City will be a good fit for her son.

“You’re going to get a smart, very hard-working, very high-character person,” she said, “and by any measure, one of the nicest guys you’d ever want to meet.”

KC Star

Judged in a vacuum, the Chiefs made themselves better on Wednesday. That’s Dorsey’s job, to make the football team better. Matt Cassel and Brady Quinn tag-teamed an awful quarterback situation for the Chiefs last season, and Dorsey knew he had to fix this before addressing anything else.

Trading for Alex Smith — who took the 49ers within a whisker of the Super Bowl two years ago and was the league’s leading passer when he got hurt last year — makes the Chiefs better. To win games in 2013, this was the Chiefs’ best available option. Dorsey is a football man, and winning is his main concern.

KC Star

John Rieger-USA TODAY Sports

Former Kansas City Chiefs GM Scott Pioli may be gone but he is still haunting the television sets of Chiefs fans everywhere.

Pioli has been serving as a draft analyst for various media outlets this offseason, including NFL Network. On Wednesday, he appeared on SiriusXM NFL Radio and dropped some knowledge on the Chiefs/49ers/Alex Smith situation.

The one thing I have heard talking to some good sources is this thing has not been completely finalized yet. I think they are still working through some of the absolute details of what the compensation is. Because I think what happens in these trades, if you give up a pick for something or if you’re going to give up two picks, what’s been a new trend in the NFL is people generally kick picks back. Because teams don’t like to see their, even if they are going to give up a higher pick they want to get something later in the draft so they at least have a volume of picks to have more opportunities.

Right now, reports indicate that the Chiefs are giving up two picks, a second-round pick in 2013 and a possible mid to high, conditional pick in 2014. There have been no real reports of the 49ers giving anything, other than Smith, back to the Chiefs.

Pioli seems to think there might be more to this deal then we are originally hearing.

Old Scotty says he talked to some good sources. It is believed by many that Chiefs chairman Clark Hunt liked Pioli and only parted with him because his hand was forced following KC’s 2-14 season. I wouldn’t be surprised if Scott’s source, was Hunt himself.

What do you think, Addicts? Is there more to this trade than meets the eye?

Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

ESPN has just reported that the Kansas City Chiefs will send four draft picks to the San Francisco 49ers for QB Alex Smith. The report is attributed to Adam Schefter.

This is a new development as previous reports, including reports from ESPN, indicated that the deal would be for two draft picks, not four. We had been hearing the Chiefs would send a 2013 second-round pick, as well as a 2014 conditional pick.

I am wondering if ESPN messed up here because a report from Schefter on their own site has Schefter saying the deal is for two picks. We haven’t been able to find this report anywhere else. It is either new or ESPN screwed up. But as you can see from the video below, they definitely said it.

This trade already seems to be extremely unpopular among Chiefs fans. If ESPN is correct in saying that KC will send four picks for Smith, fans may revolt.

Chiefs fans seemed divided on what the Chiefs should do with the #1 overall pick in the 2013 NFL Draft but a great number of supports seemed to want the team to draft and develop their own QB.

The Chiefs are expected to cut QB Matt Cassel, who has been the starter for most of the last four seasons.

Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

The Kansas City Chiefs have reportedly completed a trade for 49ers QB Alex Smith.

The trade can’t become official until March 12th but reports indicated that the Chiefs may see Smith to be more than a one or two-year stopgap.

The trade is reported to be for a 2013 second-round pick (#34 overall) and for a conditional mid-round pick in 2014. Some reports indicate that based on the conditions, the 2014 pick could become as high as a second-rounder.

Fans are…not happy. We’re not saying all Chiefs fans hate the deal but most of the reaction we’ve seen so far has been overwhelmingly negative.

The picks are so high that it seems like the Chiefs are planning to commit to Smith long-term. Smith has two years left on his contract and is scheduled to make around $7 million per-year. There are no indications of whether the Chiefs will ask Smith to restructure his deal to extend for more years.

If I had to guess, the Chiefs will likely pay Smith this season and evaluate his play. If he plays very well then they will probably try to redo his contract and ifhe plays poorly they can consider going in another direction.

Now it is time for you to weigh in. Grade the Alex Smith trade.

David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports

Multiple reports are claiming that the Kansas City Chiefs have competed a trade for 49ers QB Alex Smith.

The trade can’t become official until March 12th but initial reports indicate that the deal is for a 2013 second-round pick and a 2014-conditional mid-round pick.

Some fans are excited while others think this trade is “Matt Cassel: Part 2.”

@arrowheadaddict worst possible case scenario… Couldn’t be more frustrated

— Company Computer Guy (@MrCCG) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict Smells like Matt Cassel all over again.

— Jeffrey B. Herman (@JBHermanMD) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict if they gave up the 34th pick I’m done with this team..

— Travis McGill (@CarlyesHusband) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict Which means it’s not too late to cancel the deal!

— Kevin Reed (@Reedk12) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict I guess we know now what Andy Reid thinks of this years QB class. Any chance draft joekal move to rt? Resign Albert?

— Thomas (@sportnutny) February 27, 2013

Miles Yi
Holy. Moly.

t.e.surprise@gmail.com
2nd round? Are you kidding me? Wow!! I am speechless!!!!! KC paid way to much. Smells like the Cassell trade all over again. Hope Smith fairs better than Cassell. Go Chiefs!!!!!

nathan82
Welcome to the Alex Smith led KC Chiefs. I am stunned. I am guessing now that they will take a qb in round 3 or 4. That sound right to everyone else? Who does that leave for us to take? Does anyone else think they had to outbid other teams, or that they truly believe that this is the qb of the future. You don’t give up a 2nd unless this is the qb of the future.

Tim
Barf City…. Booooooooooooooo.. What a freaking joke….

Carlos Pacheco III
Now that they got Alex Smith, and don’t need to draft a QB with the first pick, how do you know that they may not try to trade down AND get a 2nd rounder from someone else who DOES want Geno Smith?

Soda pop
I’ve been so loyal to this team for over 20 years and its shit like this that keeps us right at mediocre!! Over and over and over and over

@arrowheadaddict I think we gave up a lot, but we’ll see how they handle the 1st rd picks. I do like Smith a lot. #TrustTheStache

— Sir Ben (Daily Wiz) (@AngryKCFan) February 27, 2013

@arrowheadaddict John Clayton on 101 ESPN in St. Louis reporting the deal could include a SWAP of 2nd round picks.#developing

— Greg Hewitt (@GregHewittSTL) February 27, 2013

Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

The Alex Smith rumor mill continues to turn and this time we have yet another confirmation that a trade for the 49ers QB is on the way.

Pro Football Talk is reporting, via a source, that an Alex Smith trade likely, quoting their source as saying that there is “little doubt” that the deal will get done.

This falls in line with what we heard yesterday from Jason La Canfora. La Canfora’s report was called in to question earlier today by Matt Barrows of the Sacramento Bee. Barrows is claiming that a source told him that there is no trade deal in place and that the 49ers are still shopping Smith.

While the PFT report doesn’t confirm there is indeed a deal already done, it does help ease some of the concerns that NFL teams interested in trading for Smith will refuse to to a deal, thus forcing San Francisco’s hand. If the 49ers are unable to deal Smith, they would likely cut him to avoid paying him some guaranteed money.

While there may be some teams employing that strategy, QB is such an important position that some team will likely want to do a trade so they can ensure they get their man. After all, there are no guarantees if Smith becomes an unrestricted free agent.

Stay tuned.

It has been several years since so much was at stake for the Kansas City Chiefs in a single offseason.

For now, we are the worst team in the league.

We have no credible starting quarterback.

Three of our best players are not under contract.

And we have no idea what our front office is thinking right now.

Like most rabid Chiefs fans, I think that both new Head Coach Andy Read and General Manager John Dorsey were good hires and I want to believe they will make the best possible decisions in this pivotal offseason.

However, the Pioli regime left my heart and soul battered and, like a chronically abused spouse, I’m a basket case struggling to trust. Add to this that we are at the height of the NFL misinformation season, where GM’s go out of their way to confuse and manipulate the agents and other teams to lower contract offers and juke out opponents. Unfortunately for us shell-shocked fans, the tactics work on us too.

We don’t know what to think.

By the end of the day, if reports are to be believed, it may be announced that the Chiefs have secured a deal to trade for San Francisco QB Alex Smith. Then again, we may end up trading for Eagles QB Nick Foles once the league years starts on March 12, and apparently talks are already running for that.

Kirby Lee/Image of Sport-USA TODAY Sports

Meanwhile, we have been told both that the team is working to re-sign LT Brandon Albert and that is also is high on LT draft prospect Luke Joeckel. Dorsey has come out poo-pooing the QB class, while it appears to be a consensus that Geno Smith solidified his status as a top 10 pick with his performance at the Combine.

We have yet to use the franchise tag, which will allow us to lock up Albert, WR Dwayne Bowe or P Dustin Colquitt.

I wish I had some insight into what is going to happen with this team, but the truth is that no one outside of a very small club within the Chiefs’ front office has any idea.

Here’s what I think I think:

I will be disappointed if Alex Smith becomes our “answer” at quarterback. He’s been productive in his last two seasons under Jim Harbaugh, but was a disaster for the franchise for years before that. While he was ranked 7^th in overall QBR for his 10 games in 2012, the three years before that he was rated thusly, 2011: 45.8, 2010: 40.1, 2009: 40.2. By comparison, Blaine Gabbert’s QBR in 2012 was 40.9. Christian Ponder’s was 53.8.

Still, I don’t want to be misunderstood. I’m not necessarily against acquiring Alex Smith if the compensation is reasonable. I am whole-heartedly against trading for him and thinking we’re set at the position. The fact is that we need three quarterbacks. Cassel could possibly restructure for a less egregious cap number this year, but I feel like a clean break would be best for both player and team. Brady Quinn is a free agent and good riddance. Ricky Stanzi and Alex Tanney haven’t shown us anything and probably only have the upside to become backups even if they develop.

In a perfect world, we could acquire either Smith or Foles and still draft Geno. Alex can hold down the fort for a season or two while Geno works on the “inconsistencies” all the scouts have been talking about and Foles could also compete with Geno long-term as an option with upside.

Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports

However, if what we end up with is San Fran’s average-to-above-average castaway and a replacement for Brandon Albert who’s unproven in the NFL for the 1^st overall pick and, say, a 3^rd of 4^th this year, it will be hard to deem this offseason a success.

Alex Smith is just 28 and maybe his best football is ahead of him. Then again, maybe he is nothing more than a system quarterback who benefited from great coaching and a strong team around him that plays both solid defense and hosts a running game that averaged 155.7 yards per game (4^th in the league in 2012).

Maybe his best football is behind him. Cassel’s 2008 QBR rating with the New England Patriots was 63.1 – 11^th in the league and comparable to Smith’s 70.1 rating this year.

On either side of Smith in the QBR rankings this year are rookies RGIII (71.4) and Russell Wilson (69.6).

It was pretty clear that RGIII was going to be a superstar this year, but that didn’t stop the Redskins from hedging their bets and picking up Kirk Cousins as well to develop along side him.

As we all know, Wilson was believed to have limitations in his game and the Seahawks got him for a song in the 3^rd round. Even then he was considered to be a reach. They also gave a big contract to Matt Flynn and had Tavaris Jackson on their roster when the training camp began last year and I don’t think they are kicking themselves.

Like I said, I am only going to be upset with Alex Smith if the Chiefs bring him in on a chariot as the sole answer to our QB woes. We need multiple options for the future. How we go about getting them will define this team for years. There are several cards to play and we can’t see Dorsey’s hand.

So, as much as it’s killing us, all we can do is wait.

Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports

The NFL Scouting Combine is still going on in Indianapolis and despite rumors swirling concerning the Kansas City Chiefs and 49ers QB Alex Smith, KC still met with eight QBs over the weekend.

According to the Kansas City Star, Chiefs head coach Andy Reid and Gm John Dorsey met with the following signal callers:

Geno Smith – West Virginia, Mike Glennon – North Carolina State, Ryan Nassib - Syracuse, Tyler Wilson – Arkansas, Matt Barkley – USC, Zac Dysert – Ohio, Tyler Bray – Tennessee and E.J. Manuel – Florida State.

The Chiefs would have only gotten about fifteen minutes with each of these QBs so this is just the beginning of the evaluation process. KC will likely take what they learned at the Combine from the interviews and workouts and then continue the process by attending Pro-Days and even by bringing some of these guys to Kansas City for a visit.

The Alex Smith rumors are causing some Chiefs fans to panic but I don’t think they should Given KC’s QB situation, I am pretty confident that the Chiefs will select a QB and select one with a high draft pick. It may not be Geno Smith at #1 but it might be a Tyler Wilson type in the second.

Remember, the Chiefs can burn a third-round pick on Alex Smith and not lose too much because they are almost certain to get a compensatory third-round pick for the loss of Brandon Carr in free agency last year. So the Chiefs could trade their early third-rounder for Smith, and still pick about 32 or 33 picks later.

There are a lot of options available to KC so don’t rule a QB out just yet.

John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports

It’s been a crazy night in Chiefs Nation.

First, we got the report that the Chiefs were the team most interested in 49ers QB Alex Smith. That report came from Ian Rapoport of NFL.com.

Then later, Jason La Canfora of CBS Sports busted out the big news of the evening. According to La Canfora, the 49ers are letting it be known that they have a trade agreement in place that will send Smith to an unnamed NFL team as soon as the new league year starts on March 12th.

La Canfora’s report set off a firestorm of reports speculating on which NFL club is the mystery team that is trading for Smith.

Right off the bat, the usual suspects emerged. The Chiefs, Jaguars, Browns, Jets, Eagles and Bills were all names that were being thrown out on Twitter.

But then the list started to shrink.

Per Jags beat writer @ryanohalloran, Jacksonville is denying they are the team mentioned in @jasonlacanfora ‘s report.arrowheadaddict.com/?p=43245

— Arrowhead Addict (@ArrowheadAddict) February 24, 2013

Just like that, the Jags were eliminated. Later, a Cleveland Browns beat writer disqualified the Browns from the running as well.

Per @jasonlacanfora‘s report that 49ers have a trade in place for qb alex smith, #browns are not that team, source tells Pd.

— Mary Kay Cabot (@MaryKayCabot) February 25, 2013

Then we got this gem from Gregg Rosenthal of NFL.com:

Everywhere I go in Indianapolis, I hear someone say that the Alex Smith-to-Kansas City Chiefs deal is all but done. (Now CBS is reporting a deal is “effectively done” for Smith, but won’t name the team.) Jacksonville Jaguars general manager Dave Caldwell said it’s “not us” who has a deal in place in a text to the Florida Times-Union. NFL.com’s Albert Breer reported a high-ranking San Francisco 49ers source says he’s not aware of a deal being done. NFL.com’s Ian Rapoport says the Chiefs have showed the most interest. Mr. RapSheet also hears the Chiefs are particularly high on tackle Luke Joeckel as a No. 1 overall pick candidate.

As far as we can tell, the Bills, Jets and Eagles camps have all been quiet thus far. The Eagles are less likely, considering they recently re-signed Michael Vick and added QB Denis Dixon. They have also stated publicly that they wish for Nock Foles to compete with Vick for the QB spot.

The Chiefs still seem to be the front-runner here. Multiple reports from different reporters indicate as such.

Once again, here is the evidence:

1. We heard yesterday that the Chiefs asked the Eagles about Nick Foles and the Eagles told them they had no plans to deal him.

2. Then we heard Matt Cassel was almost certain to be cut soon.

3. Then we heard the Chiefs were the most interested in Alex Smith.

4. We also heard the Chiefs were high on LT Luke Joeckel.

5. Then we heard a deal was in place to send Smith to an unnamed team at the trade deadline.

6. Gregg Rosenthal said that everywhere he goes at the Combine, he is hearing that Smith is going to KC.

While nothing is set in stone, this appears to be going way beyond the 49ers and the Chiefs smoke-screening.

This story isn’t likely going away any time soon. In fact, it will likely continue to develop as beat writers and other reports try to get to the bottom of it. I’ve no doubt that Adam Teicher of the Kansas City Star is trying to get some kind of comment from the Chiefs.

Remember, this time of year there is a lot of misinformation. Even if the Jaguars GM says the Jags aren’t the team trading for Smith, that doesn’t necessarily mean he is telling the truth.

It is an exciting yet frustrating process.

Strap in, Addicts. We still have a ways to go.

Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

The Kansas City Chiefs are desperate for help at the QB position and because of that unfortunate fact, whenever there are rumors involving potential signal callers and KC, fans react.

Two interesting rumors regarding soon-to-be discarded 49ers QB Alex Smith hit the Twitterverse today and Chiefs responded accordingly.

The first rumor came from Ian Rapoport of NFL.com.

RT @nfl Chiefs high on Luke Joeckel… and Alex Smith?? @rapsheet has the details: on.nfl.com/raprundown #NFLCombine

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) February 24, 2013

We broke down Rapoport’s report on Arrowhead Addict and then got back to our NFL Combine coverage.

Our comments section blew up as AA readers let their thoughts on the report be known.

Mike Ross
To all of those sayin we should pay Albert…the guy wants $10 million a year and has a history of back problems. Let him walk and draft Joekel. Alex Smith is a decent QB that took the 9er’s to the NFC championship game 2 seasons ago and was winning last season before being benched beause of injury. Geno is not worth the #1 overall and is not leaps and bounds better than whichever QB can be had in the 2nd rd. Save the $$$ by letting Albert walk and use that $$$ to sign Bowe, Colquitt and some decent FA’s.

Yancey Berry
Alex Smith is just temporary..I doubt he’s intended for the future long term.

Stacy D. Smith
If they’re truly hoping to retain Albert, all of this is a way to gain leverage in contract negotiations. The last thing Dorsey wants to do is look desperate. The Chiefs do have options at LT. That works in their favor.

The picture should get clearer come March 4th.

john
I would rather they re-sign Albert and take the DT out of Utah with the first pick. The D-line would be more of an upgrade over Albert at LT. The dude from Utah (can’t spell his name, yet) his a MUCH bigger jump over Jackson or Dorsey than Joeckle would be over Albert.

Mike Nelson
If they give anything higher than a 6th round pick for Alex, they are overpaying. If they are going to overpay, they might as well go ahead and take Geno. Maybe they will double dip and overpay for both Smiths.

jimfromkcj
The main reason I don’t support the Chiefs getting Alex Smith is because he isn’t a franchise QB and we will be overpaying him. I would prefer Matt Moore as he is not bad and a whole lot cheaper. I think I would go for Joeckel in the first rd and Barrett Jones in the second. If they keep Albert he could be LT, LG, or RT. Put them where they play the best or if they don’t want to play where they help the team the most trade or release them. It is past time that we coddle players.

@tigerdan4 @arrowheadaddict Let’s trade Albert for the #1 pick, that’s pretty much what we are doing?Would make no since.

— D Wags (@wags98) February 24, 2013

@arrowheadaddictIt is past time KC drafted their own QB, resign Albert and Bowed, and bring in some receivers.

— Rodney Killman (@rodneykillman) February 24, 2013

Later, an even more interesting report came out from Jason La Canfora of CBS Sports.

The 49ers have expressed to others that a deal for QB Alex Smith is effectively complete. Can’t be finalized til league year begins 3/12

— Jason La Canfora (@JasonLaCanfora) February 24, 2013

so it’s not official, both clubs view it at as it’s effectively done. I do not know the other team. KC and JAX are 2 teams that make sense

— Jason La Canfora (@JasonLaCanfora) February 24, 2013

As you can imagine, La Canfora’s report, combined with the Rapoport report from earlier in the day, cause a fair amount of reaction from Chiefs nation.

@arrowheadaddict This is smokescreen season.

— Midnight Gazelle (@Yelix) February 24, 2013

@arrowheadaddict I’ll just chalk that up to yet another disappointment from my beloved Chiefs. Break the streak Chiefs draft a QB first rnd!

— Nathan Fuller (@N8_Fuller) February 24, 2013

@arrowheadaddict Smith would be great addition….Reid would make him a top 10 qb

— Chad Weems (@Weems82) February 24, 2013

@arrowheadaddict lol. I bet this just a bargaining ploy

— The Fly (@OneOnThreeBreak) February 24, 2013

CT
If it is us I will be absolutely disgusted…

ivan
my god this organization sucks . how the hell does this make us better. alex smith is cassel and not only that your trading draft picks and want to draft a olinemen to replace albert? where the hell is the improvement.

Doug McD
I think it is us and we will also pickup one in the draft to have them compete for playing time. Possibly even get Foles as well. This would make the draft more clear cut. We need to build for the long term not just now. I want it now as much as anyone does, but we need to trust the system Mr. Hunt put in place.

Stacy D. Smith
A lot of smoke there, but we’ll have to wait three weeks for this to become official.

No one will say who Alex Smith’s new team is, but everyone I’ve talked to thinks it’s the #Chiefs. Could be for a Rd4 pick plus conditional.

— Matt Miller (@nfldraftscout) February 25, 2013

Alex Smith upgrades one of the 2 open QB spots for #Chiefs. Ideal or not. Other players not not. It’s still an improvement.

— BJ Kissel (@bkissel7) February 25, 2013

The rumors of Alex Smith to the Chiefs are heating up. You guysdo realize that Matt Cassel to Alex Smith isn’t an upgrade, right?

— Rob Savage (@HelloMrSAVAGE) February 25, 2013

@bucksfan3336 yes I think it’s the #Chiefs, maybe #Cardinals. Inside division unlikely.

— Gary McPheron (@Brownsclown) February 25, 2013

David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports

Alex Smith may already have his ticket out of San Francisco.

Now he just has to wait a couple of weeks to get it punched.

According to Jason La Canfora of CBS Sports, a trade for Alex Smith is effectively complete.

The 49ers have expressed to others that a deal for QB Alex Smith is effectively complete. Can’t be finalized til league year begins 3/12

— Jason La Canfora (@JasonLaCanfora) February 24, 2013

so it’s not official, both clubs view it at as it’s effectively done. I do not know the other team. KC and JAX are 2 teams that make sense

— Jason La Canfora (@JasonLaCanfora) February 24, 2013

That is a pretty big bombshell, especially considering it comes on the heals of this report from Ian Rapoport that the Chiefs are the team showing the most interest in Smith.

If a deal for Smith is already done then the Chiefs have to be considered the favorite to be the trade partner here. Then again, it is hard to trust anything you hear this time of year. Say, for instance, the Chiefs have offered a third-round pick for Smith. The 49ers, wanting to get more for the QB, could let slip that a deal is basically done, hoping to entice other suitors to get involved in a desperate attempt to outbid the “mystery team.” Heck, it is possible that there isn’t even a deal in place at all and the 49ers are just telling La Canfora that.

Still, this report is likely to send shockwaves through Chiefs Nation.

Do you guys think it is a smokescreen or the real deal? If you think it is real, do you think the Chiefs are the mystery team?

UPDATE: Jags beat writer Ryan O’Halloran says that Jacksonville GM Dave Caldwell has denied that his team is the other team mentioned in La Canfora’s report.

#jaguars GM Dave Caldwell says via text “not us” who has deal in place for SF QB Alex Smith.

— Ryan O’Halloran (@ryanohalloran) February 24, 2013

Double Update: Cross the Browns off the list.

Per @marykaycabot, the #Browns are not trading for Alex Smith. Cross of Jacksonville and Cleveland. Hope Alex likes BBQ.

— Matt Miller (@nfldraftscout) February 25, 2013

Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

According to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, the Kansas City Chiefs are high on both 49ers QB Alex Smith and Texas A&M LT prospect Luke Joeckel.

Reporting from the NFL Combine, Rapoport said details of the Chiefs’ thinking are beginign to leak out.

1) The Kansas City Chiefs like Alex Smith, Luke Joeckel. The Chiefs are in the full evaluation mode of the entire organization, with general manager John Dorsey still in the process of figuring out the team he has. But word is starting to leak of their interest in the San Francisco 49ers’ backup quarterback. At this point, based on what I’m hearing, Kansas City has shown more interest than anyone else in dealing for a quarterback who could step in and start from Day 1 while the rest of the franchise is rebuilt.

Apparently, the Chiefs are also high on Joeckel, the Texas A&M offensive tackle. If they’re planning to take him with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2013 NFL Draft, they could let Branden Albert — their own stellar left tackle — walk in free agency, where he’ll get a ton of interest. We’ll know all of this before April’s draft. If Albert becomes available, the Chiefs will have tipped their hand.

This fits the narrative that we have been hearing for a while now. The Chiefs have seemed to shy away from talking about selecting a QB #1 and have been beating the “best player available” drum. If KC leaves the Combine still high on Joeckel then LT Branden Albert could be on his way out of town.

If Rapoport’s report is true and the Chiefs don’t change their thinking soon, we may get a pretty clear idea of the team’s 2013 plans long before the NFL Draft. If the Chiefs trade a high pick for Smith and allow Albert to leave in free agency then the chances of the team selecting anyone other than Joeckel with the No.1 pick will be extremely low.

What do you think of all this, Addicts?

Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

The San Francisco 49ers are going to have to decide wether or not to keep QB Alex Smith as an expensive backup pretty soon but if they do decide to try and trade him, the Kansas City Chiefs could be interested.

According to a new report from Jason Cole of Yahoo! Sports, the Chiefs appear to be the team that is most interested in acquiring Smith.

From Cole:

It’s also equally unlikely that the 49ers will go into next season with the most expensive backup quarterback in NFL history (at least going in). While Smith has played the role of good soldier since losing his job midway through last season to Colin Kaepernick, those close to him have made it clear that he won’t be so abiding if the 49ers don’t work something out quickly.

That means that the better question is where Smith will end up. Although one source said it’s far too early to guess, Kansas City appears to be the most interested team. The Chiefs are unlikely to use the No. 1 overall pick on a quarterback this year because none of the top ones – such as Geno Smith and Matt Barkley – appear to be worth it. Several head coaches and offensive coordinators this week said they wouldn’t be surprised if no quarterback were selected in the first round this year.

The Chiefs should be interested in Alex Smith. In fact, I’d be surprised if they weren’t. But that doesn’t mean the Chiefs are certainly going to trade for Smith. The 49ers may be saying they don’t plan to release Smith but I don’t buy it. San Fran wants to trade him and get some value so they aren’t like to go around telling folks they will be cutting him lose any time soon. NFL teams don’t like to pay for what they know they can probably get for free later.

When the 2013 league year starts, I’d guess the Chiefs will likely pick up the phone and ask the Eagles what they want from Nick Foles and the the 49ers what they want for Smith. KC could lowball both clubs and then sit back and see what happens. If San Fran wants a 2nd or 3rd for Smith, the Chiefs may offer a 4th or 5th. Then, if the 49ers don’t get any better offers, San Fran will be force to either take KC’s deal, pay Smith or cut him.

This all just depends on how badly the Chiefs want Smith/Foles, what they’re draft plans are and how aggressive they want to be.

We are sure to hear more reports and rumors like this over the course of the next few weeks.

What would you give up, if anything, for Alex Smith?

John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports

You knew we’d get here eventually.

Most of the talk (rightfully so) on AA recently has been about the NFL Draft and QB Geno Smith.

Well, now it is time to consider the other Smith.

Alex.

I won’t bore you with stats. You know Smith’s story. He was underwhelming a starter for years in San Fran before Jim Harbaugh arrived. Smith faced a similar situation to Chiefs QB Matt Cassel in that he never had stability at offensive coordinator and he wasn’t playing for a very good team. Harbaugh got the best out of Smith but even then, the 49ers coach benched Smith when he was playing well, in favor of a more talented but inexperienced QB.

Now Smith is the odd man out in Cali.

So should the Chiefs go after him?

I am not so sure. The Chiefs do need a veteran QB but in many ways Smith’s play and his stat line, remind me of  Matt Cassel. I am not so sure, that even with QB guru Andy Reid coaching him up, that Smith would put the Chiefs any closer to a championship.

The argument for Smith is that he may have more tools than Cassel and that he could be a one-year rental to hold the QB position down until Reid is able to coach up his own franchise QB. In a sense, Smith would be expected to go through the same think in Kansas City as he did in San Francisco.

Then again, if Smith is playing as well for the Chiefs as he was during his last season in San Fran, I am not sure how many coaches would have the guts to bench him, as Harbaugh did.

What do you think Addicts? Is going after Alex Smith a mistake?

November 25, 2012; New Orleans, LA, USA; San Francisco 49ers quarterback Alex Smith (11) paces the sidelines during first quarter of their game against the New Orleans Saints at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick (7) started the game instead of Smith. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports

We all know that the quarterback situation is a need that would be foolish not to address this offseason. And by address, I mean not continue with Matt Cassel or Brady Quinn. Whether the Chiefs take a quarterback first overall has yet to be seen, but nothing is a certainty, especially with this draft class. And even with taking a quarterback first overall, or even later in the first or early in the second, doesn’t mean that quarterback will be the starting quarterback for the Chiefs next season.

Jake Locker was drafted in the 1^st round in 2011, but Matt Hasselbeck had been brought in for competition and ended up winning the starter’s job. Christian Ponder was drafted in the same first round as Locker, and also started the season on the bench until Vikings head coach couldn’t stand Donovan McNabb’s awfulness anymore. Heck, back in 2003, Carson Palmer was drafted #1 overall to Cincinnati and didn’t even start his rookie year behind (drumroll) Jon Kitna.

Some quarterbacks are NFL-ready when they arrive – Andrew Luck, RG3, Russell Wilson, etc. Others would be better off with a year to learn the offense. And while coaching staffs usually feel immediate pressure to start a first round pick their rookie year, especially at the quarterback position, that doesn’t mean that’s what’s best for the team. Could you convince me that Blaine Gabbert might not look like such a bust if he had a year or two to adjust to the NFL? Probably not. And let’s not forget that a lot of people thought that the Colts would draft Luck while also keeping Peyton Manning, sort of like the Aaron Rodgers-Brett Favre scenario in Green Bay not too long before that.

What I’m saying is: it wouldn’t be a bad thing to have another QB on the roster that is credible competition.

And since that potential competition is probably not on the roster – I have very little faith in Ricky Stanzi and even the mystique of Alex Tanney isn’t enough to convince me – it will likely have to come in free agency.

With the free agents at the position, there are three different classes that I believe quarterbacks fall into. The lowest level are backups that have just had their contracts expire and are looking for jobs: Brian Hoyer, Drew Stanton, both McCown’s, etc. The middle level are those who have had significant playing time, but for some reason or another, have found themselves in a backup role and are best suited in that backup role: Jason Campbell, Tarvaris Jackson, Rex Grossman, Matt Moore, Matt Leinart, David Carr. The highest level is the one where quarterbacks are highly sought, and for some reason became a free agent: this would include Manning’s release from Indianapolis last season, the impending release of Tony Romo (just kidding), and Carl Peterson’s wisdom to go with Elvis Grbac over Rich Gannon. This third category doesn’t happen often, and usually has an interesting story behind it, or at least the name of a younger talented quarterback.

If, somehow, Joe Flacco craps his pants in the Super Bowl and the Ravens say, screw it, we’re changing direction, then he will find himself in that third category. But since that is unlikely, and since I wasn’t really impressed with any of the names I mentioned earlier in the first two levels of free agent quarterbacks, what are the Chiefs to do?

Enter Alex Smith.

The 49ers may or may not trade him, but it’s already been leaked that Smith will request a release from the team in order to pursue the most possibilities for employment. With the last season and a half of resume, Smith will be pursued in free agency, and will likely come on a short contract, possibly even one year, although I’m sure he and his agent will try for three. If the Chiefs could get Smith on a two-year deal or less, I think that it’s a no-brainer the move makes sense.

A lot of people, of course, disagree with that sentiment. The very intelligent Bob Fescoe, one that speaks logically and wisely at all times, and someone that I would never speak facetiously about (I am) tweeted out that anyone that wants Alex Smith on the Chiefs is OK with mediocrity. I happen to disagree with that. Alex Smith is not a long-term answer, and everyone would know that, especially if we draft his replacement this season. What Smith would be is a stop-gap; someone to tutor and mentor a young quarterback who could find himself in a similar situation that Smith was in back in 2005. And besides, there’s no such thing as a bad one-year contract.

Smith was perhaps the latest blooming quarterback since Jim Plunkett, but he did find that consistency that was so lacking early in his career. It’s amazing what a good head coach and an offensive coordinator that lasts more than a year can do. Since the beginning of the 2011 season, Alex Smith had a 64.3 completion percentage, 4,881 yards, a 7.36 yards per attempts, with 30 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. True, Smith did his best in an offense that didn’t allow him to expose himself like a West Coast Offense surely would, his numbers are still impressive.

While the effectiveness of former 49ers quarterbacks coming over to the Chiefs has had mixed results – Joe Montana, Steve Bono, Elvis Grbac – I hold that against Smith about as much as I hold USC quarterback struggles in the NFL against Matt Barkley; not at all. The Chiefs need to improve their quarterback situation, and if that means bringing in Alex Smith and Geno Smith to compete against each other for the starter’s job, how is that a bad thing?

***

My Super Bowl Pick: San Francisco 27      Baltimore 17

David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports

With over a month until NFL free agency kicks off, rumors are already beginning to swirl.

This one is about QB Alex Smith.

With rookie QB Colin Kaepernick set to lead the San Francisco 49ers into the Super Bowl this weekend, Smith is the odd man out. He is due to earn $8.5 million in 2013, with $1 million guaranteed now and the balance guaranteed as of April 1. Since Kaepernick is the man going forward, there is no way the team will pay Smith that much money to hold a clipboard.

It is widely expected that the 49ers will try to trade Smith. That is something they won’t be able to do until the start of the new league year which consequently, is also when 2012 contracts expire and free agency begins.

According to Pro Football Talk, Smith will ask the 49ers to release him before the start of free agency.

It is a shrewd move by Smith but it may be a smart one.

If Smith is traded by the 49ers, he has no say in where he ends up. The good news, however, is that his contract is traded along with him so he will be guaranteed all that money from his new team.

Trading Smith is also good for the 49ers because they don’t want to pay up. The problem for the team is that they may not be able to trade Smith.

It isn’t that teams won’t be interested in getting Smith but the fact is, the rest of the league has the 49ers over a barrel. Other GMs know that the 49ers will have to release Smith if they can’t find a trade partner. If Smith is released, the team can then get him for “free” in free agency and construct a contract that is more to the team’s liking.

For Smith, being released before free agency is a gamble because he isn’t guaranteed to get as big of a contract as he’d be guaranteed if he is traded. The advantages for Smith are twofold. For starters, as a free agent he will have more say on where he ends up. Smith will also enjoy being a big name free agent in a market that favors him. Much like when the Chiefs signed CB Stanford Routt last offseason, if Smith is released before the market is flooded with the other free agent QBs, he will have more value.

But will the 49ers play ball?

They might. Smith has been a model citizen in San Francisco and the team may want to do him a good turn by cutting him lose. Smith’s chances might be improved if the 49ers win the Super Bowl this weekend, if not just because the front office will be in a really, really good mood.

My guess is that the 49ers will put out feelers shortly after the Super Bowl. If some team really wants Smith and wants to guarantee they can land him, they’d need to do it via trade. If a team can convince the 49ers that they will deal for Smith shortly after the new league year begins, the organization may take the deal.

It is a bit of a complicated game of chess for all parties involved. I’d wager that Smith just doesn’t offer enough security for a team to make a trade for him when they know he is going to possibly be released. I’d wager the 49ers will either grant Smith his wish to be released early or will try to trade him and fail, thus releasing him in March.

Now for the question we have ll been waiting for.

Do you think the Chiefs should pursue QB Alex Smith? Smith had been playing very well the last couple of years under Jim Harbaugh. While that may embolden some KC fans to want the Chiefs to go after Smith, at the same time, it is important to remember that despite his good play, the 49ers benched Smith in the middle of a Super Bowl run in favor of Kaepernick.

If the Chiefs did pursue Smith, how would you like them to do it? Trade or free agency?

Is Matt Cassel a franchise QB?

Ask ten Chiefs fans what they think about Matt Cassel and you will probably get ten different answers. There are sure to be some who think he will still continue to improve and, if given the time, will become good enough to lead a well rounded Chiefs team to a championship. Others will say that we’ve seen enough to know that Cassel is average at best and will never lead the Chiefs to a playoff victory, let alone the Super Bowl.

Those in the group that believe Cassel isn’t good enough often point to the likes of Brady, Manning, Brees and Rodgers as evidence that to win it all, a team needs a stud QB. A difference maker.

Those in the group that believe that Cassel is good enough, might find a dog in that franchise QB fight in San Francisco QB Alex Smith.

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Source: Yardbarker.com

The Kansas City Chiefs will be taking on the 49ers this Sunday at Arrowhead Stadium. As part of our game preview we go “Inside The Enemy Camp” and talk with Eric Melendez from Niner Noise, Fansided’s one stop spot for everything 49ers.

The Niners were supposed to wipe the floor with the rest of the NFC West but it ended up being the Seahawks that wiped the floor with the Niners in the season opener.

What happened? Was it just a fluke performance or is there trouble in San Fran?

The game against the Seahawks was part fluke, part trouble. A lot had to do with the communication issues and getting the play called in time. That hurt the 49ers and with how loud the crowd gets at Quest Field made it harder for the offense to function.

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In a lot of ways the Kansas City Chiefs and the 49ers are very similar. Both are young teams with strong running games and decent defenses looking to take the next step in their maturation process.

When the two teams square off Sunday in Kansas City their game plans are likely to be very similar. My guess is both will come in determined to stop the run while forcing the opposing team’s QB to beat them.

It will be a battle between Alex Smith and Matt Cassel for below average QB supremacy. There can be only one!

While the QB matchup may not be good enough to inspire a made for TV movie, it is immensely important for both teams.

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