San Francisco 49ers: How Much Is Alex Smith Really Worth?

The San Francisco 49ers will enter the offseason with both confidence and—more importantly—continuity. Unless someone from the coaching staff surprisingly leaves for another position elsewhere, the 49ers can expect the same core coaches to return. 

In addition, the 49ers should return many of the core players that made the 2011-2012 season so special. Both Carlos Rogers and Dashon Goldson are free agents and should expect several teams to vie for their services in the upcoming season. 

The biggest free agent happens to be a former first overall selection, in quarterback Alex Smith. After his breakout season in 2011, the 49ers should seek to re-sign the former beleaguered quarterback.

Interest from both sides has been apparent, but in this league it comes down to dollars and cents. How much is Alex Smith worth in the open market?

I have chosen three contracts that may be in the ballpark of what Alex Smith should receive from the San Francisco 49ers. 

Kevin Kolb Contract

Contract details: Five years, $63.5 million, $21 million guaranteed 

This is a contract many Cardinals fans want to forget. It is fair to point out that Kolb was injured for most of the 2011 season. 

When Kolb had the opportunity to perform, his play was mediocre at best. Even more concerning was that backup quarterback John Skelton made great strides in his sophomore season and seemed to have the better relationship with star receiver, Larry Fitzgerald.  

The 49ers would send a statement if they re-sign Alex Smith anywhere near these numbers. Trent Baalke would smartly protect the 49ers if they indeed re-sign Alex in the range of Kolb's contract.

They would likely backload the contract to give the organization the freedom to depart if need be. 

Matt Cassel Contract

Contract details: Six years, $63 million, $28 million guaranteed

This is an insane amount of guaranteed money for a meager quarterback like Cassel. I suspect the 49ers would move on with Colin Kaepernick at quarterback if Alex Smith demands $28 million guaranteed.

This is too rich for the 49ers blood. 

Matt Schaub Contract

Contract Details: Six years, $48 million, $7 million guaranteed 

Schaub deserves a richer contract than the one he currently plays for. He is set to hit free agency in 2013. 

This is a contract the 49ers should use as a template in order to re-sign Alex Smith. I'm sure Smith's agent will demand more guaranteed money and the 49ers should comply. I expect a contract similar to Schaub's but with a little bit more guaranteed money. 

I suspect a contract ranging from three to four years and about $30-40 million, with $15-16 million guaranteed. A fair contract for both sides.