The Injury That Almost Killed Him Created a Whole New Alex Smith—Here’s What He’s Doing Now

When Alex Smith suffered a catastrophic leg injury in 2018, many assumed his NFL career—and possibly his mobility—were over. The spiral fracture to his tibia and fibula led to 17 surgeries, a near-amputation, and a battle against life-threatening sepsis. But what followed wasn’t just a comeback. It was a complete transformation.

Today, in 2025, Alex Smith is more than a former quarterback—he’s a purpose-driven advocate for resilience, mental health, and youth empowerment. After retiring from the NFL in 2021, Smith transitioned into broadcasting, quickly earning respect as a sharp, insightful NFL analyst on ESPN’s Monday Night Countdown. His commentary carries extra weight because it comes from someone who’s endured—and overcome—so much.

Yet Smith’s real legacy may be unfolding off the air. As a public speaker, he shares raw, emotional stories of his darkest days—battling depression, managing chronic pain, and finding strength in vulnerability. His powerful speeches have reached business leaders, college students, and fellow athletes, many of whom say Smith’s message changed how they view adversity.

At the heart of his post-NFL mission is the Alex Smith Foundation, which supports foster youth with college scholarships, mentoring, and life skills programs. The foundation’s impact has only deepened since his injury, with Smith taking a more hands-on role—personally mentoring students and expanding partnerships across the country.

Now 40, Smith lives in San Diego with his wife, Elizabeth, and their three children. The brush with death gave him a new perspective on fatherhood. “Now, I just want to be present. I want my kids to see what real strength looks like—not in the gym, but in how we treat others and rise from pain.”

The injury nearly took everything from Alex Smith. Instead, it gave him a new life—and a mission more meaningful than any touchdown he ever threw.