Washington Football Team has finally done what they sought to do, release QB Alex Smith.
This comes after the quarterback won the 2020 NFL Comeback Player of the Year Award and led the team to a playoff appearance.
Releasing Smith will effectively save the team $14.9 million against the cap. The quarterback is set to turn 37 in May and due to count $24.4 million against the salary cap. So it was no secret that the organization has always planned to let the 36-year-old quarterback go, so they could get a younger quarterback at the helm. However, it was difficult for the team to do so. In 2018, Smith arrived in Washington through a trade. Once he arrived, he made it clear that he wanted to stay and play for the team.
During the 2018 season, the quarterback suffered a leg injury that put doubts if he would ever return. At the time, the team decided to keep him on their roster because of his big contract. It was widely believed by the organization that he would not return to the league, but instead, Smith defied all the odds. After 17 surgeries and extensive rehabs, the 36-year-old returned in the 2020 season.
Last season, Smith play in eight games, starting for six of those games. Despite only throwing six touchdowns and eight interceptions, the former Pro Bowler displayed leadership for his younger teammates, which helped the team get a playoff berth and capturing the NFC East division title.
