Alex Smith Called ‘Best (Quarterback) in League’ by Chiefs Offensive Coordinator Doug Pederson

Coaches should always throw their full support behind their players, but Doug Pederson might have taken that to extremes.

After watching Alex Smith in the first week of Chiefs training camp, Pederson, Kansas City’s offensive coordinator, likes what he sees. The Chiefs gave up a second-round draft pick and a conditional pick in next year’s draft to get Smith, and Pederson feels the high price was worth it — very, very worth it.

“Ultimately, every team has to have a quarterback,” Pederson told The Kansas City Star. “I think we have the best in the league.”

Not one of the best, mind you, but “the” best.

“There are a lot of great ones, but over time, Alex has proven he can get it done,” Pederson continued. “He’s a sharp guy, he brings a wealth of knowledge, he’s experienced, he’s a proven winner the last couple of years and he needs a team to embrace him.”

Embracing Smith is the least of what Pederson has done. He’s placed Smith ahead of Peyton Manning, Tom Brady, Aaron Rodgers, Matt Ryan and Joe Flacco. Pederson even puts Smith ahead of Colin Kaepernick, something the 49ers didn’t even do.

Photo via Facebook/The Kansas City Chiefs