Alexander Douglas Smith (born May 7, 1984) is a retired American professional football quarterback, widely regarded for his resilience, leadership, and precision passing. Over a 16-year NFL career, Smith played for the San Francisco 49ers, Kansas City Chiefs, and Washington Redskins, leaving an indelible mark on each franchise. Known for his remarkable comeback from a life-threatening leg injury, he earned the 2020 NFL Comeback Player of the Year award and was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2024.
Smith’s journey from a standout high school quarterback in La Mesa, California, to a first-overall NFL draft pick and a celebrated comeback story is a testament to his determination, intelligence, and athletic skill.
Quick Facts of Alex Smith
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Alexander Douglas Smith |
| Date of Birth | May 7, 1984 |
| Place of Birth | Bremerton, Washington, U.S. |
| Age | 41 |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 6 ft 4 in (1.93 m) |
| Weight | 215 lb (98 kg) |
| High School | Helix High School, La Mesa, California |
| College | University of Utah (2002–2004) |
| NFL Draft | 2005: 1st overall pick, San Francisco 49ers |
| Career Teams | San Francisco 49ers (2005–2012), Kansas City Chiefs (2013–2017), Washington Redskins / Football Team (2018–2020) |
| Position | Quarterback |
| Net Worth | $95 million |
| Salary | Up to $14 million per year at peak |
| Family | Married to Elizabeth Barry; three children |
| Major Awards | NFL Comeback Player of the Year (2020), 3× Pro Bowl, College Football Hall of Fame (2024), MW Offensive Player of the Year (2004) |
Early Life
Smith was born in Bremerton, Washington, and raised in La Mesa, California, in a family with a strong commitment to education and athletics. His father, Douglas D. Smith, was an executive director at Helix High School. Smith excelled academically and athletically, becoming president of his senior class and earning multiple college credits through San Diego State University while taking a dozen Advanced Placement courses.
On the field, Smith led Helix High School to a remarkable 25–1 record across his junior and senior years, winning two San Diego CIF section championships. He set a school record with six touchdown passes in one game and played alongside future NFL star Reggie Bush.
College Career
Smith attended the University of Utah, where he wore jersey number 11. Over his college career, he posted a 21–1 record as a starter and led the Utes to victories in the 2003 Liberty Bowl and 2005 Fiesta Bowl. Smith earned First-Team All-American honors, Mountain West Offensive Player of the Year in 2004, and finished fourth in Heisman Trophy voting. He completed a bachelor’s degree in economics in just two years and began work on a master’s before entering the NFL draft.
Professional Career
San Francisco 49ers (2005–2012)
Smith was the first overall pick in the 2005 NFL Draft by the San Francisco 49ers. Early years were marked by injuries, including a right-shoulder injury in 2007 and surgery-related setbacks. Despite these challenges, he led the 49ers to their first NFC Championship Game appearance since 1997 in 2011, marking a career milestone.
Kansas City Chiefs (2013–2017)
Traded to the Chiefs in 2013, Smith revitalized his career, earning three Pro Bowl selections and leading Kansas City to four playoff appearances. He achieved career highs in passing yards and touchdowns in 2017, ranking among the league’s top quarterbacks.
Washington Redskins / Football Team (2018–2020)
Smith was traded to Washington in 2018 but suffered a catastrophic right-leg injury that required 17 surgeries and nearly resulted in amputation. Defying the odds, he returned in 2020 to lead Washington to a division title and was awarded the NFL Comeback Player of the Year.
Career Statistics
- Passing attempts: 5,193
- Passing completions: 3,250
- Completion percentage: 62.6%
- Touchdowns–Interceptions: 199–109
- Passing yards: 35,650
- Passer rating: 86.9
During his career, Smith earned a total of $210 million in NFL salary, making him one of the highest-earning players in league history.
Personal Life
Alex Smith married Elizabeth Barry, a former Oakland Raiders cheerleader, in 2009. They have three children. Off the field, Smith has been active in philanthropy, establishing a foundation and scholarship program in 2007, as well as a clothing line, Just Live, whose proceeds support the Center for the Intrepid rehabilitation facility.
Legacy & Philanthropy
Alex Smith is celebrated not only for his athletic achievements but also for his leadership, perseverance, and charitable work. His comeback from near-amputation is considered one of the greatest in NFL history, serving as an inspiration to athletes and fans alike.
