Alex Smith: Jamaal Charles “definitely going to be missed” by Chiefs
By Matt Conner
Alex Smith says the Kansas City Chiefs are definitely going to miss their franchise-record setting running back when the 2017 season begins.
Alex Smith was recently the keynote speaker at a fundraising event for the Boys & Girls Club of Springfield, Missouri. While he was there, he spoke to local reporters about the cause, his heart for those less fortunate than others and even some feelings about the Chiefs offseason. In particular, Smith mentioned the loss of Jamaal Charles and said it would be one that the franchise would feel once the new season rolls around.
"“Jamaal is not only a unique talent but definitely a great teammate, and definitely is going to be missed. (He has) been here a long time and done some things that nobody has ever done at this level,” Smith said."
Charles is the all-time leading rusher in Chiefs franchise history, so Smith’s statement feels obvious, even if the Chiefs had to learn how to do without Charles for long stretches in recent years. Charles has only played 8 games in the last two NFL seasons combined and is once again trying to return from a season-ending injury. Still the offense lacks any impact talent at running back (or even any real talent besides Spencer Ware).
Charles has taken one official visit to the Seattle Seahawks but they chose to sign veteran RB Eddie Lacy instead. He’s still available on a free agent market.