NFL

Four years after trading for the Patriots' backup quarterback, the Chiefs have swung a deal for the 49ers' clipboard holder. The price tag is shocking. The Niners received the 34th pick this year plus a 2014 conditional third-rounder that can escalate to an additional second-rounder -- for a career game manager. It's similar to what the Cardinals paid for Kevin Kolb in 2011 and Kansas City paid for Matt Cassel in 2009. Smith is an upgrade on Cassel, but his mediocre skill set prevents offenses from playing explosive football and threatening downfield. The deal is done, but won't be "official" until the new league year opens on March 12. The 49ers are now armed with five draft picks in the top 93. The Chiefs are slated to pick just twice in the top 95. Expect plenty of Smith checkdowns to Jamaal Charles in Andy Reid's pass-happy West Coast scheme.