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The 49ers used the overall pick on quarterback Alex Smith in 2005. Smith retired Monday after 16 NFL seasons, the first eight spent in San Francisco.
Smith passed the 49ers 38-36-1 and passed for 14,280 yards with 81 touchdowns and 63 interceptions. The 49ers traded Smith to the Chiefs after the 2012 season, and in 2013, the quarterback earned his first of three Pro Bowls.
Jed York, 49ers CEO, paid tribute to Smith and issued a statement:
“On behalf of my entire family, the San Francisco 49ers organization would like to congratulate Alex Smith on a remarkable and inspiring NFL playing career. For eight years, Alex has represented our concession with class as well as off-field, and his contributions to the 49ers organization will be remembered forever. During his time in the Red and Gold, Alex showed how perseverance, dedication and hard work were core principles for him as a person, and it was truly special to see his impact in the locker room and in the community. Alex continued to show these values throughout his NFL career, so it was no surprise to see him named the 2020 Associated Press Comeback Player of the Year. To Alex, his wife Elizabeth and their three children, Hudson, Hayes and Sloane, we wish them all the best. You will always be part of the 49ers family. ”