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Former San Francisco 49ers No. 1 overall pick Alex Smith announced his retirement Monday morning after he completed an incredible comeback from a leg injury. Reports came out that Smith contemplated returning for a 17th season and reuniting with his former college head coach, Urban Meyer.
Smith released this video on his Instagram:
Smith said in his video:
“To everyone out there, whether you’re a part of Niner Nation, the Chiefs Kingdom, or the Burgundy and Gold, I thank you. To all the men I had the privilege of standing with and playing alongside, thank you. I want to say thank you for believing in me. And thank you for helping me believe in myself, and in the impossible.
Because even though I’ve still got plenty of snaps left in me, after 16 years of giving this game everything I’ve got, I can’t wait to see what else is possible. But, first, I’m going to take a little time to enjoy those walks with my wife, and my kids have no idea what’s coming for them in the backyard.”
Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid spoke about Smith on Monday at his press conference, as did Patrick Mahomes:
#Chiefs HC Andy Reid was just told on a conference call that Alex Smith officially retired: "He's a heck of a person. I told him if he gets into coaching, I'll get first dibs on him. He's a guy you'd love to have on your staff. A special person and one of my all time favorites." pic.twitter.com/On3WadL8uF
— NFL Update (@MySportsUpdate) April 19, 2021
Patrick Mahomes on Alex Smith retiring: “With the injury he had, to lead his team to the playoffs. That shows you the player he is. I’m just grateful for the time I had with him. He really helped me be the quarterback I am today." pic.twitter.com/rFvDeDRMqz
— NFL Update (@MySportsUpdate) April 19, 2021
Here are a few 49ers takes:
Blessed to start this @NFL journey with Alex Smith #QB1 Wishing you and the fam all the best‼️ #FootballisFamily pic.twitter.com/JJtJLxbF8t
— Frank Gore (@frankgore) April 19, 2021
The definition of inspiring.
— San Francisco 49ers (@49ers) April 19, 2021
Thank you for all the memories, Alex pic.twitter.com/c5jMCb2lZ9
"His resilience and ability to cope with adversity ultimately defined him." @mikesilver and @wyche89 reflect on Alex Smith's career as he announced his retirement after 16 seasons. pic.twitter.com/HrCG8euCBn
— NFL Network (@nflnetwork) April 19, 2021
Heck of a career pre-injury,
— JJ Watt (@JJWatt) April 19, 2021
Legendary status post.
Absolutely incredible comeback, a picture of determination, perseverance and sheer will.
Thanks for the inspiration and best wishes on the next chapter! https://t.co/AMhbUPYqLV
With Alex Smith’s retirement, it’s great to look back at all the memories.
— OurSF49ers (@OurSf49ers_) April 19, 2021
That Harbaugh era was a hell of a ride ❤️ #49ers || #FTTB || #GoNiners pic.twitter.com/u9mNB03xP8
Thank you for the AMAZING Memories and the game of our lives Alex Smith.
— OurSF49ers (@OurSf49ers_) April 19, 2021
Nothing but respect for a humble player who battled so much adversity during his tenure with the #49ers
All the best ❤️
: @nflthrowback pic.twitter.com/sgR6ELn1Fv
Alex Smith's influence will be felt long after he's gone from the game @PatrickMahomes @Chiefs pic.twitter.com/SwBfVBIdDL
— The Checkdown (@thecheckdown) April 19, 2021