Where does Alex Smith rank among NFL quarterbacks?

Nov 2, 2014; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Alex Smith (11) throws a pass against the New York Jets in the second half at Arrowhead Stadium. Kansas City won the game 24-10. Mandatory Credit: John Rieger-USA TODAY Sports

Alex Smith is a polarizing figure for the Kansas City Chiefs. Some believe he is the perfect quarterback for this team. He is risk-averse and rarely puts the team in a bad situation, helping out one of the league’s best defenses. On the other hand, the opposition sees Smith as a hindrance to an offense that needs to create more explosive plays.

Most can agree that Smith is not an elite player, but he’s also not terrible. Smith gives Kansas City a chance to win almost every game, but fails to win any completely because of his arm. After Smith was given a four-year contract extension before last season, the debate raged even hotter.

So where does Smith rank compared to the other 31 starting quarterbacks? Let’s analyze the situation, factoring in age, production, intangibles, playoff success and team success. Injuries also count in this equation, but without durability, you aren’t doing much good.

32. EJ Manuel

The Buffalo Bills are a talented team, but they are saddled with a horrific quarterback situation. Manuel and Matt Cassel will battle it out, but the situation is dire. Manuel has little ability to stretch the field and isn’t accurate underneath either, compiling a 58.6 completion percentage. It would be stunning if Manuel turns into a quality player.

31. Blake Bortles

Bortles is entering his second year with the Jacksonville Jaguars and has some better talent around him. Bortles struggled mightily in his rookie season after being the third-overall pick last year. Bortles tossed 11 touchdowns with 17 interceptions while being sacked 55 times. He now knows how David Carr feels.

30. Geno Smith

Remember that time Smith was good? Me neither. Smith has been a turnover machine since entering the NFL in 2013, driving New York’s offense into the group with help from a bad supporting cast. He’s a young guy so perhaps there is hope, but his play has been brutal.

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