It’s “not a certainty” that Washington Redskins quarterback Alex Smith will return to his NFL career, ESPN reported Sunday.
Adam Schefter reported that there is optimism within the Redskins’ organization that Smith will return from the injury he suffered a week ago against the Houston Texans — a broken tibia and fibula that included a spiral fracture.
Smith was placed on injured reserve the day after the injury, and Mark Sanchez was signed to back up Colt McCoy, the Redskins’ new starter. They plan to start McCoy at quarterback for the rest of the season as they race the Dallas Cowboys for the NFC East title.
Smith’s rehab will last anywhere from 6 to 8 months, according to the team, to 8 to 10 months, according to Jay Glazer of Fox Sports. Smith will turn 35 this offseason and does not have many years in the NFL left, regardless of his health.
McCoy was given a contract extension this summer. If Smith were to be forced into retirement, the 32-year-old journeyman and former University of Texas star will be the only quarterback on the roster, and the Redskins will find themselves in the market for a new starter once again.
• Adam Zielonka can be reached at azielonka@washingtontimes.com.
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