Poor Alex: Smith's Toughest Week as a 49er?

Alex Smith had to fend off questions surrounding the latest report that he will request his release from the 49ers before the March 12 start to NFL free agency, as well as deal with the fact he will not be starting for the 49ers in Super Bowl XLVII.


It has been a week to forget for Smith, who was not given a booth at Media Day on Tuesday, only to be swarmed by reporters out in the open. It got so bad, he had to wear a headset just to hear the questions coming from the masses that numbered close to 60 people at one time.

What has gone unsaid is Smith's help in the growth of starter Colin Kaepernick. Harbaugh said earlier this week that Smith coaches Kaerpernick more than he does, something for Smith haters to take into consideration, as well as the many suitors he is sure to entertain this offseason via trade or free agency.