Washington Redskins quarterback Alex Smith is dealing with a serious infection after having surgeries to repair his injured leg. Smith broke his fibula and tibia while playing against the Houston Texans on November 18th. The infection was first reported by Burgundy Blog on Twitter last night.
My curiosity about Alex Smith's silence evoked a tip, which prompted some research, which yielded more info, which feels solid. I'm told Smith indeed still in hospital with post-op infection. Will likely require re-intervention, incl possibly "partial reconstruction."
— Burgundy Blog (@BurgundyBlog) December 6, 2018
The NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport confirmed the report earlier today.
#Redskins QB Alex Smith is battling an infection related to the surgery he had on his broken fibula and tibia, sources say. It’s premature to say what this means for his playing future. But it is being handled with care and dealt with seriously by doctors.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 6, 2018
ESPN’s Dianna Russini was told by her sources that there is concern that the injury and subsequent infection may end Alex Smith’s career.
Redskins QB Alex Smith is still recovering from multiple surgeries. The QB is dealing with an infection from complications. Told by sources there is serious concern this is a career-threatening injury.
— Dianna Russini (@diannaESPN) December 6, 2018
The Washington Redskins released a statement in response to the news and while not confirming the infection, they asked for Smith’s privacy to be respected while he continues to deal with his injury.
Statement by the Washington Redskins: pic.twitter.com/SROL4sPVFM
— Washington Redskins (@Redskins) December 6, 2018
Head coach Jay Gruden addressed the media after the news was released and at the request of Alex Smith and his wife, he did not expand on the status of Smith’s health, allowing the quarterback to do so when he was ready.
WATCH LIVE: HC Jay Gruden and DC Greg Manusky speak to the media following practice Thursday. https://t.co/dSfBgPohhO
— Washington Redskins (@Redskins) December 6, 2018
The Redskins traded for Smith this offseason and signed the veteran quarterback to a four-year extension. Adding to their difficulty, backup quarterback Colt McCoy is also out after suffering a fractured fibula in Sunday’s game against the Philadelphia Eagles. Washington will now start Mark Sanchez at quarterback to finish out the season.
