Kansas City Chiefs OC Doug Pederson: Alex Smith is best quarterback in league

The Kansas City Chiefs are excited to have Alex Smith running their offense after some rough seasons with Matt Cassel under center. The Chiefs signed Cassel to a $63 million contract after he filled in admirably for an injured Tom Brady in New England, and things never really worked out. Smith has more potential at this point, but let’s not get carried away. That means you, Doug Pederson.

Pederson, who is the Chiefs’ offensive coordinator, had high praise for Smith when discussing his new signal-caller on Wednesday.

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

Smith was off to a great start last season with the San Francisco 49ers before he suffered a concussion and was replaced by Colin Kaepernick. That being said, the Niners had a fantastic defense and running game. Jim Harbaugh also figured out exactly how to use Smith to get the most out of him. Will the Chiefs have the same luxury?

“There are a lot of great ones, but over time Alex has proven he can get it done,” Pederson said. 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.”

Again, Smith proved he can get it done with arguably the best defense in the NFL offsetting his flaws. He may have to score more points and do more with less in Kansas City, which will be no easy task. Is Smith an upgrade over Cassel? I’d certainly hope so, but calling him the best — of even one of the best — quarterbacks in the league is a bit crazy.