Alex Smith: Project 11 [Extended Trailer] | E:60

Watch the full story on ESPN, 7:30 p.m. on Friday, May 1.
After a 6-3 start to the 2018 season, everything seemed to be going according to plan for quarterback Alex Smith. Then came the Nov. 18 game against the Houston Texans; Alex was sacked and fell to the ground with a severe injury to his right leg. But nobody knew just how severe the really situation was-until now. ESPN’s Stephania Bell spent more than a year documenting Alex’s journey for E:60, with rare and exclusive access to him, his family and his doctors, who deemed the injury “warlike.” Project 11 is a riveting look at the life of Alex Smith, from lightly recruited high school quarterback to battle-tested former No. 1 draft pick fighting his way back from an injury that almost cost him everything.
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[@camctrail]

He was actually making the Redskins a playoff team...

[@BryonLetterman]

He's not the guy who can get you to the Conference or the Super Bowl, but he's incredibly efficient and will get you to and inside the playoffs consistently

[@bilwit]

the team that year was walking a fine line with the accumulating HB, WR, and OL injuries and the difference between being in the playoff hunt leading the East at 6-3 at that point and being a 2-7 laughing stock bottom feeder was Alex Smith

[@keondrehayes3611]

Bryon Letterman he almost got the Niners to a super bowl

[@ronniehodges8490]

I know right

[@PhilAndersonOutside]

@@BryonLetterman Mostly true, just don't forget that back in 2011 he was plays from leading the 49ers to the SB, until Ted Ginn fumbled a punt, handing a close AFC championship game to the Giants. He was also playing even better next season when he got hurt and lost his job to Colin Kaepernick.

[@TheNeutralizer27]

Anyone here after he took his very first snap post-injury? So magical

[@Thumpin383]

Pretty special! Also why I’m here

[@TheNeutralizer27]

Thumpin383 When there’s a will there’s a way, and Alex Smith has done it.

[@mikeconron1937]

Seeing his injury is enough to keep my kids out of football forever and yet this mad man decides to come back to the sport that nearly killed him. Unreal

[@TGangGaming]

Nahh

[@Popcornhebe]

@@mikeconron1937 if you love the game you're willing to sacrifice your body

[@dieseluniversityclips]

Wow. And to think that after all of this he’s said that he’s ready to play football again, that’s passion man

[@nealm6764]

Yeah, I admit I would NEVER step on a football field again after that, and would be so grateful just to still have the leg. He is definitely a much tougher dude than me.

[@user-xe7wc4nb3f]

for that type of pay check most people would do the same thing...

[@nealm6764]

@@user-xe7wc4nb3f He will get the paycheck no matter what. he doesn't have to play again. This is all about his desire and passion to play again.

[@bilwit]

@@user-xe7wc4nb3f he has contract guarantees that he will get if he never steps on the field again and, as a #1 overall pick pre-rookie cap, he's made a very, very lucrative career already. It's clearly not about the money at this point. No one is going to sign him for a big deal even if he can play anyway.

[@uz_cub_1746]

Max Tooch dude after that injury for sure I thought he would not want to play but I hope he can play one with out getting hurt

[@jwoodfill14]

As a huge Chiefs man, I’ve felt for this dude since Mahomes took over, and took the team to another level. And then this brutal injury. He was an amazing Chief and I wish for the best in his future.

[@tblightningbolt8902]

Jacob W. He doesn’t need your pity

[@dmjdmj]

@Lions Redemption. Empathy is not equal to pity.

[@jwoodfill14]

Lions Redemption I just feel for the dude, he’s been through a lot. Don’t want any negativity, wish him the best

[@lilbob3603]

Didnt they say they were gonna give him a ring too?

[@jwoodfill14]

Chug The Bong Not sure.

[@michellediaferio1513]

As an Eagles fan that does not like the Redskins, I hope that Alex Smith heals up and returns to the football field. I will be rooting for him (not when we play him), to get better. Alexander Douglas Smith, I am praying for your recovery.

[@briansarah2745]

Michelle Diaferio good stuff man

[@cjlello221]

Michelle Diaferio i don’t know if he’ll ever return again

[@jromainima]

As a Dallas fan that does not like the Eagles. I still hate the Eagles. But I hope Alex Smith is okay. Comeback season

[@isaiahfleming1547]

Michelle Diaferio you don’t need to mention your an eagles fan. You should hope he recovers no matter what team you like

[@cngbuddah]

I honestly hope he becomes an announcer or espn commentator, he obviously knows the game, like romo has done.

[@sergio23537]

Glad Alex is ok wishing and hoping he returns at the field one day.

[@myimorata7678]

No way should this man EVER go back to a football field. Walk away with two good legs and call it a day.

[@anti-socialprogramming2203]

Oh he won't bro

[@myimorata7678]

@@anti-socialprogramming2203 Amen brother.

[@Greybeardmedic]

I hope the commissioner steps in and says no, Alex, it's. Over.

[@aarav5762]

Caleb M man, I have some news for you

[@bosshoggish1]

I was at open practices the year he got drafted. Always kept his head up through all the boo's(We want Carr chants), Singletary throwing him under the bus, all those losing years, "cowardly lion" nick names, etc. Still get chills from that Saints game on that boot left he ran for the TD! Always rooting for Alex Smith, the ultimate professional!

[@shaed1298]

Sadly there are some players and coaches in the NFL that don't get the praise and recognition that they deserve for their craft/abilities. Alex may be atop that list. As a 49er he had a revolving door of coaches and coordinators that made it difficult for him to reach his full potential, yet he never complained and was always a team player. After being traded, he took the Chiefs to the playoffs after being the league's worst team the year before. During his 5 seasons there he only missed the playoffs once, made the pro bowl 3 times, and had a 3 to 1 TD/INT ratio. Finally he was leading Washington to their best record and presumably playoffs before he was injured. Yet he is considered by many fans as "captain check-down", "not a QB that you can win (playoffs/SB) with", or "a bust as a 1st overall pick". Truth is Alex has had an amazing football career and is one of the smartest QB's to play the position. Now I hope he can get healthy and recover for his family's sake. If he was able to return to football that would be miraculous, but in my mind he has nothing left to prove.

[@dorlndo]

@@shaed1298 yeah he got a raw deal on the 9ers for sure. I'm pretty sure it was like 7 different offensive coordinators his first 7 years. How do you expect to have any team continuity doing that?

[@bosshoggish1]

@@shaed1298 Totally forgot to mention him having 7 different offensive coordinators in like his first 7 years. Man those York years were bad. It was good seeing him thrive with the Chiefs as well as the Redskins until the injury. Hopefully he'll come back healthy, but I agree he has nothing left to prove. Well said!

[@javv3973]

Yea even when Kaepernick took over i still wanted Alex to start even tho kap had good games in Smiths concussion protocol, but after that Super Bowl run 49ers thought kap was there guy but nope that following season after Alex Smith left to Chiefs, Defenses quickly figured out Kap, pressure him, take him out of the box and its over, thrown out ball, risky scramble or would try to fit a pass into a tight risky spot. No hate to Kap but he could only scramble, only in the absence for Alex in the SB run was he able to surprise Defenses bc he was a flashy qb that no one had film on, but he had bigger weaknesses once any team was able to exploit them. All i wanna see is Alex with a ring man, been a niner fan since 08’ since i was 11 lol, only non bandwagons remember when he replaced Shaun in that Texans game 😅, that was almost a crazy comeback. Crazy that Crabtree was only a rookie at the time lol, time flying like crazy😂

[@michaelfranco9591]

Prayers to Alex Smith that’s a tough injury to come back from !!

[@mikereed1096]

One tough guy. Never could get over the hill and win a chip but he's always been a great qb. Hope he makes full recovery and gives it one more shot

[@theinvictussamaritan4778]

He should have an honorary ring from the chiefs.

[@isaacanderson6264]

He got one

[@Alkiel]

did the eagles give andy reid one?

[@juanquezada8644]

chase if Alex smith didnt play for the chiefs they wouldn’t be anywhere near a Super Bowl let alone winning one so yeah deserves one

[@theinvictussamaritan4778]

Isaac Anderson that’s good.

[@Alkiel]

@@juanquezada8644 or maybe they would've one a chip a year earlier

[@erockz1085]

Can’t wait to watch this E:60 tonight. That’s mental, emotional and physical determination by him... 🙏🏽 with a great support system!

[@rylanshchyschuk7759]

HemiDad 392 where can I watch it

[@bird_gang_az9598]

That guy was changing that redskins team! Major game changer for sure, wish the best for him.

[@kaylamurphy5784]

That guy was changing that redskins team! Major game changer for sure, wish the best for him.

[@ravenskryptonite9880]

Chiefs Kingdom will always have a lot of love and respect for Alex Smith. He is a true professional! Wish that man only the best!

[@blckbear2074]

Still raised his arm to the crowd on the way out. Escrutiating pain. Respect

[@paulmontgomery4790]

i love Alex Smith! he may not be putting up hall of fame passing numbers, but he is and will always be my top 5 NFL players! regardless if he plays again or not wishing him the best! thoughts and prayers for you!

[@vincenteynda1775]

Love this man. I loved when he took the job in KC and still followed him when he left to Washington. Im glad this man is recovering. He is an inspiration for everyone.

[@nms3945]

Who’s here after he made his comeback

[@Datkiddiego]

Who’s here after Washington beat the undefeated Steelers

[@jayvenwilliams1064]

Yeah he did very well

[@jebbush6473]

Get buggered

[@johnjacob5844]

Sunday night. Alex comes to National tv

[@chefalex1753]

And after he got cut

[@tae2x866]

I wish nothing but the best for Alex Smith a true warrior, going through this and still wanting to comeback and play ✊🏿✊🏿

[@mantistoboggan2599]

I’m a chiefs fan. If Alex makes a comeback and plays again I’ll cry tears of joy. I’m so proud he played for us.

[@johnnykerr70]

From a Ram, wishing you all the luck in the world Alex Smith. A gentleman

[@nathanpeoples2319]

I believe Alex Smith would make a fantastic coach in the NFL. He's got a great mind for football.

[@actuallyalexsmith3305]

You know, my wife always tells me I've got a face for radio. So, I don't know about any of this. I'm not sure my wife would love if I continued to coach after my career's done. We'll see.

[@jedswenson5667]

@@actuallyalexsmith3305 Alex, your story is an inspiration for the masses!

[@BryonLetterman]

We in Kansas City have so much to thank AS11 for because although Mahomes is a uniquely talented QB, he got a real advantage by shadowing Alex Smith for a year and learning from a pro about how to conduct yourself and be the best player possible. I hope he at least gets to play a little more before he retires. I'd like to see him take the Redskins to the playoffs like he did many times with the Chiefs

[@dq1147]

To think he has been cleared to play after all he went through. Amazing.

[@yerkoantelotb1255]

Watching as hes walking into the game to replace Kyle Allen. Lets go Alex

[@blckbear2074]

Nothing but respect for this man. I truly hope he makes the best possible recovery he can make. Retire and enjoy your family.

[@christopherhibbs7770]

Amazing dude on and off the field. Sending love and healing from Kansas City. Thank you for all you did for the Chiefs

[@okaysoundsgreat]

I feel like we’ve all become his parents. Every time he steps on the field we’re all like holding our breath. Good luck brother.

[@kittykatking28]

Seeing Alex smith return this last year was one of the most amazing things ever man, so much dedication and passion.

[@BenFitter]

I would just like to point out that this dude was completing 70% of his passes with a 104.1 rating in 2012 before being benched. Then completed 67.5% of his passes with a 104.7 rating in 2017 before being traded.

[@shaynagubert4156]

Literally!!! He's the prime example of situation mattering. I'll always have a "what if" w/ him. If he stayed w/ that 49ers roster, ugh would've been amazing!

[@356z]

Alex Smith was a great QB. He just went to the most injury prone team in the NFL for QBs. Glad he recovered, I never knew how serious the injury was. -from a Broncos fan

[@rowanwood5397]

i am a lifelong niner fan. i remember when alex (the kid) was drafted by mike nolan and company. i followed his career. i watched him fight back from being a loser QB to becoming a perennial post season QB. ...this kid's grit. he is highly intelligent, which makes me like him more, and he is a good person. He is all american. Never says anything bad about anyone. No off-field issues. i love this kid and i nearly cried while watching this documentary. this year, 2020, aldon smith and alex smith will make their comebacks, and niner fans like me will be rooting for these two guys who we all want to see succeed. i also want to say, that i am increasingly impressed by this guy. he such a fighter, yet also such an intelligent, and soft spoken gentleman.

[@jonathanerickson4729]

I just got done watching the E60 special on Alex Smith on ESPN. By the time it ended I was an Emotional Wreck! I haven’t Wept as much as I did today in a very long time! I’ve never seen such Courage as Alex showed Ever! I have a new found Admiration for Alex & his Wife for what they went thru! I will be watching his progress in trying to make it back to doing what he Loves- Playing Football!

[@jamesb1988]

The most underappreciated man in all of football. Since his days as a 49er dealing with Mike Nolan all the way until now, have always loved Alex. He WILL return.

[@Dr.JeremyDunks]

AS11! Kansas City loves you!

[@cameronhirtle7316]

The debate about his talent will continue for eternity. But you can't question this man's will.

[@Jazziegirltoo]

SO tragic! He was not just a really good QB, but a super human being and teammate! Of course, he'll always be a super human person and much loved! Terrible loss to football!

[@saevurr]

How can 31 people Dislike this video? Alex Smith's story is an inspiration to us all. Even more so finishing 5-1 in his starts this season and leading the WFT to their first playoff appearance since 2015.

[@j_bug255]

Even if he retires without a super bowl, he’s a champion in my eyes. Respect ✊

[@gosubtomyotheraccountleckt1702]

He has won the super bowl before

[@crackmeup6784]

Warrior.

[@mundomarvellatino4629]

Wow dude this guy says he's ready to play football after that wow as a 49ers fan I really feel bad for what this guy has been going threw I wouldn't wanna play football ever again

[@jcdova29]

Alex really loves football to come back after his injury and what he went through after. He almost lost his life. I would of been happy just to walk again. This man is one determined individual. Respect!!

[@zayinghui6282]

These gave me the chills when he completes his comeback it might be the greatest injury comeback in sports history and I might tear up bro I basically did the same thing to my arm from sports besides the infection

[@emrtrucksales2311]

Great Player, rough ride in the league. Crazy that it went from saving a career, to saving a leg, to saving a life so fast. Hope he heals physically and mentally to enjoy the rest of his life. If he plays again then wow, fair play, he gave enough though.

[@MsMichigan]

I was hit as a pedestrian by a vehicle going 50 (yes, that's FIVE ZERO) and had 7 completely separated fractures in my tib/fib. Thank GOD they somehow did not end up being compound fractures. I had 22 fractures in my arm/shoulder, that was completely shattered. That did end up putting so much trauma by shoving my humerus and shoulder into my chest cavity, that my skin ripped open, and started leaking bodily fluid right there on the street. I ended up in only a 7.5 hour surgery that took my bicep muscle out, six pins in my arm, a titanium rod w/4 screws on my leg. I can walk because of the metal that is now my new bone. I can't do any of the high active sports that I had previously done (equestrian competitor, ski racing, running) but hey I can WALK, and that's all I care about. The fact that he's playing again, is a miracle. Alex, you are an inspiration to all that have had a traumatic injury......and downright an inspiration to all. 👏👏🙌🙌

[@elliebrown8633]

Alex's comeback is nothing short of a miracle. I can also somewhat relate to what he endured, as I also underwent multiple surgeries and infections (not on a broken leg, but on my ear) and ended up losing an ossicle and am now partially deaf in my left ear.

[@plysin-_-5478]

Im so happy recovered fromed this

[@danlivni2097]

Those doctors did a great job fixing Alex's leg

[@andrewspath2489]

That's why I've always had respect for this man

[@KansasIcemaker]

As a chiefs fan I have nothing but love and respect for that dude. I hope he keeps playing without any injury. KC will always love and cherish that dude. Man is a fighter !!!

[@tiagoontiveros]

and now he’s headed to the playoffs

[@gabagoo4547]

Never realized how unbelievable this comeback was

[@rockchalk9078]

Imagine if he won a Super Bowl and what a story that would be

[@nickcipolla7803]

One of the most universally loved players alongside Fitzgerald and JJ Watt... any team should love having him as their starter!

[@AShoresfishing]

and now hes playing, amazing

[@rudolforamirez5646]

Kansas city cheifs fan here , thank you Alex for everything that you done well here in Kansas city leading by example and showing malhomes how a leader should lead and very glad that you made a recovery and a remarkable comeback to the nfl! Praying you do great in your future endeavors!

[@ericscottstevens]

Gruesome. Amazing doctors. Salute to the veterans and Alex.

[@lyinginbed]

The kingdom thanks you for all of the bricks you laid in our foundation for the future you are a class act and we love you!

[@Kodboattours]

The 49ners messed this man's career up.

[@EDogg5]

Would've won the Super Bowl had he started

[@markworkman6544]

Amazing strength. Stay Strong. HTTR

[@toddmusic]

The rest of this story is even scarier and then extremely inspiring.

[@dannymorales1494]

Psalm 84:5 Blessed is the man whose strength isin You, Whose heart is set on pilgrimage

[@novaheads]

He seems like a good dude

[@JMoneyRips]

God bless you, Alex Smith

[@HOUSEMDSB7]

God bless Alex Smith hope so glad he pulled through.

[@camronglenn3502]

As a fan of the Utah Utes I have watched Alex Smith's career unfold. I think he is a great QB and unfortunately has had some bad luck. San Fran really screwed him over. First with horrible coaching and the never-ending cycle of Coaches. Then when he finally gets stability. Harbaugh screws him over for the Joke that is Kaepernick. KC he played well and mentored one the best QBs we have ever seen play the game and traded to Washington. I hope he can make a comeback the dude deserves it.

[@DaVoidBruh]

Just insane

[@oyeaoyea8555]

Although it's sports, these are important stories to tell about dealing with significant obstacles in life. Make no mistake, this is long-form journalism. It's specials like this that make me want to support ESPN by keeping their channel as part of a TV subscription.

[@EDogg5]

Salute!!!!! Very Underrated

[@dennisclark8061]

Alex is an inspiration!

[@anthonyhager7416]

And to think this man played today

[@jacobj.8200]

imagine not having the money to pay for 17 surgeries

[@adamkingston2231]

Jacob J. Only in America

[@ABruhMan]

Mannn, I was just thinking about this too

[@BajaDeezNutz]

Regular folks can’t even afford a dental check up. 17 surgeries? I’ll just... die... don’t worry about it man. I’ll be fine.

[@isaaclara2485]

Anyone else would be walking on a metal leg

[@IncognitoSprax]

@Michael Wayne Being treated is one thing. Being able to afford it is another. Medical bills can and will destroy your credit if can't afford. Alex's first surgery is easily around $30k or more due to the severity. Now imagine that 17 times. Treatment for bacteria in blood is around $10k. Additional surgery around another $20k. Stuff like this half and commonly to people who are victims of things like it and run it differences they just go broke, because even if the hospital doesn't bill they'll still have to deal with the Physicians bill

[@isaacanderson6264]

This is so sad I always liked form time he was traded towards the Chiefs and this is so sad to see

[@carlosrosado8982]

God bless this man what a inspiration

[@jennifermartin3914]

The best comeback I have ever seen😢

[@RickyDonoho]

When will there be a 'replay'?

[@andrewcastillo9558]

Here after he beat steelers! As a chiefs fan I'm always rooting for alex. Great dude.

[@1AJBOOMER]

Praying for ya🙏🏽

[@minh7170]

Glad he is okay...man been thru the trenches...

[@tonys4299]

I’m glad he’s ok

[@animalmother1582]

The Comeback Player of the Year needs to be named after him. PERIOD!

[@somemistakes6091]

Just been given the award for NFL comeback if the year...the man is a f**king warrior

[@iamstoryyyy5607]

Crazy

[@Martin911]

What a warrior!

[@brendanrichardson3743]

as a niners fan i still miss alex

[@nicholasgriffith9702]

Watching this now knowing that he might be the stater for Washington is a miracle

[@priyeshjoshi3701]

He deserves an honorary super bowl ring for everything he did for the chiefs

[@anthonydesrivieres7721]

Wow!

[@damiondeloatch7437]

Praying for man. As an Eagles fan. Just saw it on 360

[@wenlopez3142]

Hello where can I watch the full documentary? Thank you

[@adamtrinchetto4508]

My brother Seth, Physical Therapist for Inova helped him physically to walk again.. Well accomplished!

[@tim.noonan]

Zeus Mob definitely the appropriate amount of anger to display at a youtube comment 👍🏼

[@randypeters366]

@Zeus Mob He's obviously never accomplished anything himself. That's why he's trying to grab any little bit of attention he can get through somebody else's achievements

[@southHWD]

Man remember my cousin having a signed Utah football poster from alex smith he was a big fan

[@mickcarter70507]

This made me remember who my hero was to follow, WHO DISLIKED this

[@Susuwhqishss]

HE BACK!!!!!

[@yinyangxperience5137]

Hoping this isnt the end. We are waiting for our QB to come back! Hope to see you soon big guy!

[@Yung_VY]

Yin Yang Domain Dwayne is our QB

[@JRKA]

San Diego!!!

[@selerim]

I'm glad his leg got better after all. I understand how scary it is to lose a leg I too had broken my leg doctors told me there can be risk of infection. I'm happy they saved my leg and never got infected so I feel for him

[@theaussiecantaloupe3990]

Someone please tell me how to watch this in Australia with out getting a VPN

[@oswincastillo8473]

Cuando estara disponible para Latinoamérica

[@AOH1321]

Praying for you Alex! Even retired, you’re a consummate professional in life!