rotoworld on Smith-

ESPN's Adam Schefter confirms the 49ers will attempt to trade Alex Smith before granting him his release.
NFL.com and the Santa Rosa Press Democrat both reported as much last week. However, coach Jim Harbaugh insists the 49ers will "absolutely" consider Smith's wishes when deciding his future. Schefter also confirms the Browns and Chiefs as possible Smith destinations. Smith's $8.5 million 2013 salary will complicate any potential trade, while teams may not be willing to surrender more than a fourth- or fifth-round pick.

ESPN New York believes Alex Smith will "probably be too rich for the Jets' blood."
Smith is under contract for $8.5 million, and the Jets are already on the hook for $8.25 million to Mark Sanchez. More "cost-effective" veteran choices for the Jets include Tarvaris Jackson, Matt Flynn (if released by Seattle), and Matt Moore. It throws some cold water on the Smith-for-Darrelle Revis trade speculation.

ESPN's John Clayton believes Alex Smith would make a "beeline" to the Cardinals if granted his release instead of being traded.
Clayton also expects the Browns to be the "most interested" in a potential trade. Clayton appears to be expressing more his gut feeling than an actual sourced report, but both Arizona and Cleveland figure to leave no stone left unturned in their search for a quarterback. However, the weak-armed Smith is a poor fit with new Cardinals coach Bruce Arians on paper, as Arians is among the league's most ardent believers in the deep ball.

ESPN's Chris Mortensen reported on NFL Live Wednesday that the trade market for Alex Smith is "limited," and there is "not a large buzz" about Smith among quarterback-needy teams.
Specifically, Smith going to the Browns is a "long shot," per Mortensen. The Jets can't afford his contract, the Cardinals are the 49ers' division opponent, and the Chiefs might explore Nick Foles or Geno Smith first. Anyone who's kept tabs on Smith the past two years won't be surprised. Smith was available in 2012 free agency, and only the 49ers and Dolphins showed much interest in him