Current Playing Status
As of the 2025 season, Alex Smith is not an active professional football player. He last appeared in an NFL game during the 2018 season with the Washington Football Team. A severe leg injury in Week 17 of the 2018 season led to multiple surgeries and ultimately ended his playing career. He has not been on an active roster since and is classified as retired.
Playing Timeline and Teams
Overview and Key Seasons
Smith played 11 seasons in the NFL after being drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in 2005. He served as a starter for the 49ers and later played for the Kansas City Chiefs and Washington Football Team. His career peaked with a Pro Bowl selection in 2013, but it was his durability and leadership over many seasons that defined his tenure.
| Team | Years | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco 49ers | 2005–2017 | QB starter (2008–2017) | Pro Bowl 2013 |
| Kansas City Chiefs | 2017–2018 | QB starter | Traded mid-2018 |
| Washington Football Team | 2018 | QB starter | Leg injury ended season |
Injury and Retirement Details
2018 Leg Injury and Recovery
In Week 17 of the 2018 season, Smith suffered a compound leg fracture while playing for Washington. The injury required limb-salvage surgery and multiple subsequent procedures. The physical toll, combined with the risk of further complications, led to his decision to retire. He officially became a free agent in March 2019 and did not sign with another team, indicating his departure from active play.
Career Highlights and Legacy
Accomplishments and Leadership
Before the injury, Smith was known for his accuracy, pocket presence, and resilience. He threw for over 21,000 yards and 157 touchdowns across his career. His comeback from the 2018 injury was widely regarded as remarkable, though it concluded without a return to game action. His legacy includes longevity, professionalism, and mentorship within the locker room.
Life After Football
Broadcasting and Front Office Work
Since retiring, Smith has worked as a broadcaster and in football operations roles. He has appeared as an analyst and has been involved in team decision-making processes in advisory capacities. These activities reflect a continued commitment to the sport, albeit from a non-playing perspective.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When did Alex Smith stop playing football? He last played in Week 17 of the 2018 season and retired in early 2019.
- Why did Alex Smith retire? A severe leg injury in 2018 required multiple surgeries and made continuing his playing career too risky.
- Is Alex Smith working in football now? Yes, he remains in football through broadcasting and front office advisory roles.
- Did Alex Smith ever lead a team to the playoffs? He reached the playoffs as a starter with Kansas City in the 2018 season before his injury.
- What will be Smith’s long-term legacy? He is remembered for durability, leadership, and overcoming serious injury with grace.