Alex Smith wants out. The San Francisco 49ers backup quarterback is expected to ask for his release after the Super Bowl this year.
Smith, who was the starting QB in San Francisco until a concussion put him on the sidelines in week 10 , reportedly wants to be released from the team before the free agent signing period on March 12.
According to Pro Football Talk , Smith is set to earn $8.5 million in 2013. That’s a pretty expensive salary for a back up quarterback and the 49ers are expected to trade Smith before the start of next season. Smith, however, would rather ask for his release so that he can find his next job on his own.
NFL.com reports that if the team releases Smith, the quarterback will lose the $8.5 million but he’ll also be in charge of where he plays next. Smith had a pass completion rating of over 70% during the first nine games of the 2012 season and should be in high demand if he enters free agency.
Do you think the 49ers should release Alex Smith?
The 49ers will be playing in the Super Bowl next week and their former starter quarterback will be watching Kaepernick lead the offense on the field.
Smith was upset when he was demoted to second string but said this week that he was happy for Kaepernick and the 49ers.
“I’m so happy, man. This is so surreal. It’s such a crazy time, such a crazy moment. Obviously, it’s been a unique year, and it would be great to be in there. But I couldn’t be happier. This is a great group of guys, and they’re all Super Bowl-bound. I’m just so happy for all of them.”
Do you think the 49ers will release Alex Smith?