Logan Thomas 'can't imagine' Alex Smith not trying to play in 2021 originally appeared on NBC Sports Washington
Following the end of the Washington Football Team's season, Alex Smith was not quite ready to make a declaration on what comes next. His 2020 season was one he will cherish forever, but now the quarterback will take some time away before deciding his next chapter.
Tight end Logan Thomas supports that notion, but based on the mentality he saw from Smith in their first season together, he can't envision a scenario where Smith isn't involved with football.
"I’m sure you guys have talked to him, but shoot. I can't imagine him not trying to play football next year," Thomas said during Washington's locker cleanout on Sunday. "Just the type of person that he is, and he loves the game. If he decides to walk away, I think it'll be for good reason, but having a feel for Alex, I feel like he wants to play."
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Smith's 2020 season was nothing short of a Hollywood script. Battling back from a life-threatening leg injury that required 17 surgeries, the quarterback returned to the field in an NFL game. Not just that, but he eventually started games, went 5-1 and led Washington to an NFC East title, A truly remarkable and inspiring achievement.
Though the veteran was unable to play in Washington's playoff game due to an injury, it doesn't take away from the adversity he overcame.
Yet, Thomas believes that the injury could be another motivating factor in Smith's return. He saw first-hand how dedicated Smith was to overcoming the odds and returning to the field and how difficult it was for the quarterback not to see the season through. Therefore, Thomas feels that the never-quit mentality could return in 2021.
"Like I've said many times before, Alex is a special man," Thomas said. "I know it tore him up inside to not be able to play yesterday and in a couple games earlier this year, but knowing what I do know about him, and from what y'all can see about him, is he's going to bounce back, be fine."
No matter what decision Smith makes, Thomas will be by his side. Though the two have only been together in the league for one year, the impact the tight end has felt will forever have an impact on his work ethic and perspective.
"I'm going to help push him to be where he wants to be, whatever he decides to do. I'm thankful that I was able to meet him and get close to him and learn a little bit more about him and his family," Thomas said. "I'm thankful for all the relationships I've made over my time in this career, and Alex is no different."
