(670 The Score) Bears coach Matt Nagy joined players, coaches and executives around the NFL in recognizing recently retired quarterback Alex Smith, who revealed Monday through an Instagram post that he's leaving the game.
Nagy, who as Chiefs quarterback coach and offensive coordinator worked with Smith from 2013-'17, released a statement through the Bears in which he praised Smith.
"Every teammate should experience an Alex Smith as a teammate," Nagy said in the statement. "He's a warrior. Every coach is a better coach with Alex Smith as a player. He's a winner. Every husband should treat their wife like Alex does. It's genuine. every father should watch him be a dad. It's endearing. Thank you, '11.' You are one of a kind."
The No. 1 overall pick in 2005, Smith played 14 NFL seasons -- seven with the 49ers, five with the Chiefs and two with Washington. He was a three-time Pro Bowl quarterback.
Smith's career will be defined by his last three years. In November 2018, Smith suffered a horrific leg injury that nearly led to amputation. Remarkably, he returned to play eight games in 2020 and was named AP Comeback Player of the Year.
Chris Emma covers the Bears, Chicago’s sports scene and more for 670TheScore.com. Follow him on Twitter @CEmma670.