Washington Redskins quarterback Alex Smith’s playing future may be in jeopardy.
The 34-year-old is dealing with a “devastating complication” from leg surgery, according to “The Sports Junkies” on 106.7 The Fan host Eric Bickel, who cited sources.
NFL.com’s Ian Rapoport reported that Smith is battling an infection related to the surgery and said the veteran is being handled carefully and “seriously” by doctors.
Redskins blog Burgundy Blog first reported that Smith was still in the hospital after undergoing surgery on Nov. 20. The site reported that Smith’s post-operative infection could require “partial reconstruction.”
The Redskins said Smith’s family requests privacy.
“On behalf of Alex Smith, we appreciate all of the concerns and prayers over the injury he incurred on November 18th against the Houston Texans,” the team said in a statement. “Although this is a serious injury, Alex and his family remain strong. We would ask that everyone please honor the Smith family’s request for privacy at this time.”
Smith, who signed a four-year, $94 million extension in the offseason, suffered a broken tibia and fibula against the Texans in Week 11.
Former Redskins quarterback Joe Theismann said Smith’s broken leg reminded him of his own career-ending injury.
“Alex’s leg is exactly like mine 33 yrs ago,” Theismann said in a tweet.
Redskins backup Colt McCoy broke his leg Monday night against the Eagles, which forced former Jets quarterback Mark Sanchez into a game for the first time since 2016.