If you thought signing Chase Daniel represented some kind of hedge by the Chiefs against quarterback Alex Smith as their starting quarterback, coach Andy Reid put it to rest on Wednesday afternoon.
At a press conference formally introducing Smith as a member of the Chiefs, Reid was quick to say that Smith was the team’s starter. And Smith was quick to say that Kansas City was the place he wanted to go when he decided he wanted to move on from the 49ers.
“There was no doubt in my mind that this is where I wanted to be,” Smith said, via the Kansas City Star. “There was no doubt in my mind. I’m glad it got done. You look at what’s here, the pieces that are in place … it’s just a matter of getting things going, getting the culture right.”
Since making the trade for Smith, the Chiefs have done a lot of work to surround him with players who can help the team improve on last year’s 2-14 record. Wide receiver Dwayne Bowe was signed to a long-term deal, and he’ll join tight end Anthony Fasano and wide receiver Donnie Avery as targets for Smith to use in the passing game. The Chiefs also franchised tackle Branden Albert and they could use the first overall pick on more help for the offensive line.
That would seem to qualify as getting things going and the Chiefs could be in position for a serious turnaround if things come together as the team has planned.