The latest injury update from Alex Smith is a bit of good news that he’s finally shed the leg brace he’s worn for some time in recovery from a fracture.
The latest bit of news from Alex Smith comes courtesy of his wife, Liz, who recently posted an update on Instagram about the former Kansas City Chiefs quarterback’s journey back from a nasty leg fracture.
On Monday, Liz Smith posted a couple pictures of Alex Smith in recovery, the most heartening picture being one of the quarterback holding his leg brace—one he’s worn for some time in recovery after having surgery on his leg.
Specifically Smith writes:
"The last 8 months have been nothing short of crazy. Although it’s not over, today is a big milestone. We are shedding the weight Alex has been carrying (literally and figuratively). It’s one step closer to the goal. The resilience, determination and mental fortitude of this man is unmatched."
In an interview with Angie Goff a few weeks ago, Smith himself sat down to give an update on his recovery timeline. At that point, he said he’s able to throw without issue, but it’s “learning to run again” that’s a major point. That makes sense given the extreme nature of the fracture—not only a compound fracture of multiple bones that went through the skin but also a spiral fracture that keeps it from being a clean break—and it’s a major step forward that Smith is even thinking about coming back at all.
Smith is now a member of the Washington Redskins and lasted only 10 starts into a four-year contract before going down with the injury last fall. The team made moves for veteran Case Keenum in free agency and spent a first round pick on Ohio State’s Dwayne Haskins in the draft, so the Redskins are clearly moving on without waiting on Smith to potentially recover at some point. That said, Smith still seems like a man intent on playing again even if it takes another full season away.
Smith was starting quarterback for the Chiefs during the first five years of Andy Reid’s tenure with the team (2013-17) and remains a fan favorite for helping to right a losing ship. Smith led the Chiefs to the postseason in four of his five seasons under center.