|
Smith’s season-ending broken right tibia and
fibula in a 23-21 loss to the Houston Texans was a painful image
that left the Redskins with much to digest.
"When we get to that (play in the game film), we’ll speed past
it — watching it hurts yourself," Redskins offensive lineman
Chase Roullier told the Washington Post.
"Horrible to see. Speed past that."
Washington coach Jay Gruden said Smith’s misfortune, which
happened when he was sacked by J.J. Watt and Kareem Jackson in
the third quarter, left his team with heavy hearts.
"When you have an injury like that, it’s more heartbreaking than
it is physical. Just breaks your heart. It’s just hard to watch
that happen to any athlete."
Now the Redskins must start the challenging process of building
without Smith, the signal-caller they traded for in the
off-season and signed to a four-year extension.
Backup QB Colt McCoy does not immediately evoke excitement,
particularly as Washington (6-4) clings to a one-game lead atop
the NFC East Division.
The 32-year-old McCoy is just 7-18 as a career starter and could
be leading an offense that already lacks punch.
The Redskins are reeling from injuries, and are without All-Pro
offensive lineman Trent Williams, starting wide receiver Jamison
Crowder and running back Chris Thompson.
Washington could pursue another quarterback replacement, but
after their latest setback the team had little choice but to
rally around McCoy.
"I’m a big firm believer in Colt McCoy’s talent,” Gruden said.
“This is the opportunity of a lifetime for him. I know he would
like it in different circumstances."
The future circumstances for the 34-year-old Smith are now also
dicey.
Same day 33 years ago, Washington Hall of Fame QB Joe Theismann
suffered a ghastly leg fracture that ended his career.
A flood of players took to social media to send Smith well
wishes.
"Prayers for my guy man! You will bounce back!" Kansas City’s
quarterback Patrick Mahomes tweeted.
(Writing by Jahmal Corner in Los Angeles; editing by Amlan
Chakraborty)
[© 2018 Thomson Reuters. All rights
reserved.] Copyright 2018 Reuters. All rights reserved. This material may not be published,
broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Thompson Reuters is solely responsible for this content.
 |
|
