Smith’s pay cut has benefits

By Brad Wilbricht  |   Thursday, March 12, 2009  |  Comments( 4 )

San Francisco 49ers
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The first overall pick in the 2005 NFL draft, the San Francisco 49ers' Alex Smith, recently restructured his contract, setting up a showdown with Shaun Hill for the starting quarterback position. While Smith has the physical tools, Hill holds a significant advantage in intangibles. When Hill has been on the field in the past, the 49ers have won. The same can’t be said for Smith at this time.

Smith has been a severe disappointment, but he still has the opportunity to continue his career in the Bay Area. During his rookie season, Smith struggled to a dismal 40.8 QB rating. He looked to have turned the corner in 2007 after throwing for nearly 3,000 yards and 16 scores. However, Smith took a step back last year thanks to inconsistent play and a season-ending injury

Meanwhile, Hill played in just three games in 2007 but compiled a 101.3 QB rating and tossed five touchdowns compared to just one interception. After taking a backseat during the first half of the 2008 season, Hill took over midway through the campaign under center. He made good on his opportunity, throwing for over 2,000 yards while maintaining a passer rating of 87.5.

Going into 2009, there are several advantages regarding Smith’s restructured contract. As a first overall selection with a colossal contract, expectations are extremely high for an unproven signal-caller. While Smith has collected a large amount of guaranteed money already, his current deal is now aligned with his true market value.

Additionally, the money the 49ers save can be used to acquire offensive playmakers to surround the QB. While many of the first-tier free agents have already signed elsewhere, there are still capable players out of work. San Francisco’s front office can also turn to the draft to bring in a dynamic game-changer who will benefit Hill or Smith.

With Hill and Smith battling it out for the starting job, it should only bring out the best in both players. While Hill has likely maxed out his ability, Smith still has upside. With a new contract now in place and the presence of Hill, Smith may be poised to finally break out and realize his full potential.
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About Brad Wilbricht

Brad Wilbricht covers numerous sporting events including the NFL, NFL Draft and college football. His analysis is simulcast through several media outlets across the country. Additionally, Brad is a regular guest on a variety of talk radio shows and can be frequently heard on the airwaves. To ...
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CommentsComments: 4  |  Sign Up  View all comments
No.1
pwmartin		04:58 AM
03/13/2009
I have never commented on any post, but the things you guys say are hilarious. You say Smith's deal "current deal is now aligned ...
No.2
D-Floor		07:59 AM
03/13/2009
Correction: Alex Smith's rookie season was 2005, and his break out season was 2006 (not 2007 as was written in the article ...
No.3
D-Floor		08:05 AM
03/13/2009
I also agree with pwmartin that Im not sure how close to the true value Smith's new contract is. I've read that he is going from ...
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