Candid Cam: Smith staying with 49ers is bad play call

Candid Cam: Smith staying with 49ers is bad play call
March 11
Contra Costa Times

"Alex Smith is returning to the 49ers at a cheaper price than originally ticketed, and that served as fine news Tuesday for the 49ers, who should embrace all comers as their quarterback quandary stretches into a sixth season.

This is not a smart career move for Smith, on the other hand.

So what if he has a chance to win back his starting job? This organization has thoroughly derailed his career since drafting him No. 1 overall in 2005. The in-house overhaul isn't complete, and it's not the greatest environment for a career makeover.

Even if he wins back his starting job, that doesn't mean he's poised to become a successful starter, not with this franchise's recent history and current construction.

He doesn't see it that way, however, as evident by the two-year contract he agreed to Tuesday. He sees a 49ers franchise that is "close" to playoff contention.

"It's pretty easy to see when you're around here," Smith said on a conference call with Bay Area media. "I think back to my first couple years here, the changes that have been made. From top to bottom, the organization is headed in the right direction.

"I definitely get that sense, especially with Coach (Mike) Singletary and some of the things and people he's added. I think we're close. Look at Arizona and see what happened, and the parity in this league."

Yes, but look at the 49ers, and, really, how different are they from the team Smith joined four years ago out of

Utah.

The offensive line isn't top flight, and his right shoulder is in as much jeopardy as it was on Sept. 30, 2007, when a sack by Seattle's Rocky Bernard sent Smith's career into a tailspin.

The coaching isn't a proven commodity. That's not to say Singletary hasn't worked wonders since taking over midway through last season for Mike Nolan. The franchise's energy and attitude is on the upswing. But, again, when it comes to Smith's direct coaching, there isn't a proven quarterback guru who can help Smith with the chronicled flaws in his technique. Jimmy Raye marks his fifth coordinator in five years.

The skill positions are also a serious question mark, especially at wide receiver, where Josh Morgan and Brandon Jones will be looking to establish themselves while the 49ers are figuring out if Smith or Shaun Hill is their quarterback."
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