NFL Rumors: Alex Smith Makes No Sense for Seahawks

The Peyton Manning saga may have officially taken its toll on free agent quarterback Alex Smith, as the 49ers have thrown their hat in the Manning sweepstakes.

Smith was reportedly not pleased with the 49ers' first contract offer to him last week, and in return, the 49ers watched Manning workout in North Carolina.

Smith and Manning are both represented by agent Tom Condon.

Sports Illustrated's Jim Trotter reported back in January that the Seahawks had an eye on Smith last offseason. Now that Smith's future in San Francisco seems to be in limbo, Seattle could try to take another stab at him.

The Seahawks will presumably start Tavaris Jackson next season.

With the 49ers seemingly pursuing Manning, the instant reaction would be that Smith should feel disrespected in a way after taking the 49ers to the NFC Championship last season.  However, the 49ers obviously do not feel comfortable enough with Smith to the point where they feel he can bring a Super Bowl to San Francisco.

Smith's likeliest option may not be his best option, though.  Given the reports, Smith should test the free agent waters, but heading to Seattle makes no sense for him.

Jim Harbaugh was the man that saved Smith's career from being an NFL backup.  He was patient with Smith and helped him manage the game accordingly, which led them to an NFC West division title and a deep run in the NFC playoffs.

Heading to Seattle—where Pete Carroll has had a hard time getting any quarterback to play well for him, let alone someone like Smith, who needs constant attention and guidance to succeed in the NFL—is not a good move for Smith or Seattle, for that matter.

No matter what the results are in the Manning sweepstakes, Smith better hope that Manning does not head to San Francisco. Otherwise, his career could take turn for the worst yet again.

For Smith's career to continue at the starter level, he will need the guidance of Harbaugh—and Harbaugh only.