What Happened to Alex Smith? Where is Alex Smith Now?
by Mathelene
Updated Jan 13, 2024
What Happened to Alex Smith?
In 2018, while playing for the Washington Redskins, NFL quarterback Alex Smith suffered a severe leg injury when tackled by the Houston Texans. The impact led to a compound fracture of his right tibia and fibula. After initial surgery, complications arose, including a dangerous infection from flesh-eating bacteria. Alex faced the possibility of amputation to prevent further spread. Enduring a total of 16 surgeries, he remarkably returned to the NFL in 2020, wearing a special brace due to tissue loss.
The infection was life-threatening, causing sepsis, requiring muscle transfer, and microvascular surgery. Even after overcoming the infection, 10 more surgeries were needed for his leg's recovery. Alex's determination allowed him to play again before retiring in 2021, becoming an inspiration in the league. Now, he works as a broadcaster and analyst for ESPN, marking a triumphant chapter in his career.
Get a grip on what's happening in the world with Fresherslive. Our articles are crafted to ensure that you can effortlessly grasp the news, making staying informed a breeze.
Where is Alex Smith Now?
As of now, Alex Smith has retired from professional football and is working as a broadcaster and analyst for ESPN. Following a remarkable comeback journey, overcoming a severe leg injury and life-threatening infection in 2018, Smith returned to the NFL in 2020. Despite facing numerous surgeries and challenges during his recovery, he displayed incredible determination. After retiring in 2021, Smith transitioned to a new role at ESPN, providing insights and analysis for the network's football coverage.
His journey from a career-threatening injury to a successful comeback and subsequent career in sports media is an inspiring story for many, making him a respected figure both on and off the field. Smith's current focus is on sharing his knowledge and experiences with fans through his broadcasting role at ESPN.
Who is Alex Smith?
Alexander Douglas Smith is a former American football quarterback with a 16-season career in the NFL. Starting with the Utah Utes in college, he earned All-American honors and won the 2005 Fiesta Bowl. The San Francisco 49ers chose him as the first overall pick in the 2005 NFL Draft. Despite early struggles, Smith led the 49ers to a division title and playoff win in 2011. A concussion in 2012 led to him losing his starting position to Colin Kaepernick.
Traded to the Kansas City Chiefs, he achieved playoff success, including consecutive division titles. In 2018, Smith joined the Washington Redskins but suffered a severe leg injury. Despite doubts about playing again, he made a remarkable comeback in 2020, leading Washington to a division title and earning NFL Comeback Player of the Year. Smith retired in 2021, with his return from injury considered one of the greatest in NFL history.
Full Name
Alexander Douglas Smith
Date of Birth
May 7, 1984
Birthplace
Bremerton, Washington
Hometown
La Mesa, California
College
University of Utah
Draft Year
2005
Draft Position
1st overall (San Francisco 49ers)
Position
Quarterback
Net Worth
$95 million
Alex Smith Age
As of 2024, Alex Smith is 39 years old. He was born on May 7, 1984, in Bremerton, Washington, Alex Smith grew up in La Mesa, California, where his father, Douglas D. Smith, worked as an executive director at Helix High School, which Alex attended. As a starting quarterback for the Helix Highlanders during his junior and senior years, Smith led the team to an impressive 25–1 record, securing two San Diego CIF section championships.
His achievements included being named to the first-team all-conference and all-county squads, winning the conference offensive player of the year twice, and earning the team MVP for Helix. Notably, Smith set a school record with six touchdowns in a single game and had the second-highest completion percentage in San Diego CIF history. Additionally, he served as the president of his senior class, earned college credits at San Diego State University, and took multiple Advanced Placement tests.
Alex Smith Career
Alex Smith had a remarkable 16-season career in the NFL. Drafted as the first overall pick by the San Francisco 49ers in 2005, he faced challenges in his rookie season, playing nine games and struggling with one touchdown pass and 11 interceptions. His career took a dramatic turn in 2018 when, playing for the Washington Redskins, he suffered a severe leg injury, a spiral and compound fracture to his right tibia and fibula.
The injury led to life-threatening complications, including necrotizing fasciitis and sepsis, requiring 17 surgeries. Remarkably, Smith returned to the field in 2020, earning the NFL Comeback Player of the Year after leading Washington to a division title. Despite garnering interest from other teams, he retired in April 2021, leaving behind a legacy of resilience and determination.
Alex Smith Net Worth
Alex Smith's wealth is estimated at $95 million. The former NFL quarterback accumulated his net worth through a successful 16-season career in the league. Smith started his professional journey as the first overall pick in the 2005 NFL Draft, signing a substantial six-year, $49.5 million contract with the San Francisco 49ers.
Throughout his career, he played for the Kansas City Chiefs and Washington Redskins, achieving accolades such as leading his teams to playoff runs and receiving Pro Bowl selections. Beyond his on-field accomplishments, Smith's financial success is also attributed to endorsements and various business ventures. His net worth reflects both his skill on the football field and his savvy business decisions.
What Happened to Alex Smith? - FAQs
Alex Smith's inspiring NFL comeback followed a severe leg injury in 2018, enduring 17 surgeries, life-threatening complications, and a determined rehabilitation process, allowing him to return in 2020.
As the first overall pick, Smith struggled in his rookie season, playing nine games and recording one touchdown pass while dealing with injuries and coaching changes.
Smith suffered a spiral and compound fracture to his right leg during a game. After facing necrotizing fasciitis and sepsis, he underwent 17 surgeries, extensive rehabilitation, and made a remarkable return in 2020.
In 2020, Smith overcame challenges, leading Washington to a division title and winning the NFL Comeback Player of the Year award after a stellar performance following his severe leg injury.
Alex Smith's net worth is estimated at $95 million, earned through his successful 16-season NFL career, endorsements, and business ventures.