Alex Smith Reportedly Released from Hospital After Surgery on Leg Injury

Washington Redskins quarterback Alex Smith, who suffered season-ending open and spiral fractures in his right leg on November 18, has been released from the hospital after having numerous surgeries and battling an infection.

Per Adam Schefter and John Keim of ESPN, "there is some optimism, but hardly certainty, that Smith will be able to resume his NFL career, though the priority for now is simply recovering from a spiral leg fracture that became infected after multiple surgeries."

The 34-year-old Smith is a 14-year NFL veteran who has played for the San Francisco 49ers, Kansas City Chiefs and Washington.

Obviously, the primary concern is Smith's health after he suffered the gruesome injury against the Houston Texans following a sack. His release from the hospital is an encouraging sign, and hopefully the infection is behind him.

As far as his football future goes, speculation on that front has varied over the past few weeks.

Dr. David Chao wrote a piece for the San Diego Union-Tribune on November 20 expressing optimism that Smith would be able to play again someday.

"Given the spiral fracture, the fracture surface is greater," Dr. Chao said. "That means there is a much higher chance of healing—one I would put at 99 percent.

"The rehab is tough, and there will be associated muscle damage. But it is nothing Smith can't overcome."

Dr. Chao also projected that he would need six to nine months to recover, which ranges from May to August 2019.

However, Smith then suffered an infection, and Dianna Russini of ESPN reported that the injury could be career-ending.

Thankfully, Smith seems to be on the right track after the hospital release, at least providing some hope he can play someday. That would make for a great comeback story, but even if Smith never plays another down of professional football, the best news is that he's on track for a complete recovery.