Washington Redskins players praise quarterback Alex Smith at minicamp

The Washington Redskins signed Alex Smith to ensure stability at the quarterback position. According to players, Smith is giving the Redskins that and more.

Coming off a career year in which he threw over 4,000 yards, 26 touchdowns, and just five interceptions, Washington Redskins quarterback Alex Smith is somewhat of an enigma around the league. Last season, he showed a newfound willingness to let the ball fly, and trust his options downfield, while in previous years, spanning back to his rookie season, he was little more than an efficient game manager.

Despite his breakout season, the Kansas City Chiefs pulled the trigger on Patrick Mahomes and cut Smith loose in a trade to the Washington Redskins earlier this year, making good on a subliminal promise they made to the Texas Tech product, that he would be their franchise quarterback.

As a result of the trade, many outside spectators are intent that Smith will return to his conservative ways in D.C., despite the evidence in his most recent body of work. But after the additions of Paul Richardson and Derrius Guice, and the returns of Chris Thompson, Jordan Reed, and Jamison Crowder, Smith should be in a situation in which he can thrive, just as he did in 2017.

Smith has the skill set to excel in Jay Gruden’s scheme, and early on in offseason activities, he’s already garnering rave reviews, from both his peers on the football field and from head coach Jay Gruden himself. Below is a selection of quotes, found via the media player on Redskins.com.

Quotes on Washington Redskins quarterback Alex Smith

Josh Norman: “Alex is figuring it out. He really is. He’s seeing things that he can do in this offense and making it his own. He’s picking up pretty much where he left off at in Kansas City.”

Quinton Dunbar: “Alex is a great quarterback. You can tell he’s been in this league for a long time. The way he takes command of the offense and tosses the ball around is just amazing to see. [Alex Smith helps you get better] in so many areas because you know he’s going to come out and give you the same thing every day. He’s going to be on point with his throws and his reads, and it helps you out a lot.”

Kapri Bibbs, on what he’s most excited for this season: “I’m excited to get a Super Bowl, man. I’m trying to go for Super Bowl No. 2. I think that we have a great thing going right now. I think Alex is phenomenal. He’s a great leader. He knows exactly how to control the guys in the huddle, and control the field. You just watch him out there; he knows how to get out of the pocket, he knows where he’s at, and he knows where his guys are at all times. You can’t ask for a better guy to step in and do what he’s doing right now. I think we really got what it takes to make that run this year.”

Paul Richardson, on how well Alex Smith has adjusted in Washington: “I think he’s done adjusting. I think he knows the offense fairly well. He’s done a great job. I can tell he’s done a great job with the offense because he’s out there leading us. Usually, guys try to fill it out first and then work on their leadership. [Smith]’s out there. He’s attacked the playbook, really aggressive. Always ahead. He’s out there being a good leader for us.”

Jay Gruden: “He’s a veteran guy. Been there, done that. Every kind of passing scheme, concept, he’s seen or done. Run concepts, he’s seen or done in his career, with coach Harbaugh and obviously with coach Reid. Not a lot I can throw at him that he hasn’t done or tried. I’ve been very impressed with him as a player, and obviously as a person. One thing about Alex: He’s the smartest guy I’ve ever been around. Without a doubt.”

Next: Alex Smith: When man, city, and purpose all meet

Optimism is building around the Washington Redskins’ new starting quarterback, and it’s easy to see why. It may be early, but Smith, with his experience, has progressed faster than anyone expected. As he grows more comfortable with the Washington Redskins’ offense and his new weapons, he should only keep getting more of this same recognition. In an offense such as Washington’s, with so many choices, an adept decision maker like Alex Smith can take an extra step, even from last year.