5:40AM Monday
February 25, 2013

Colin Kapernick took the 49ers' starting quarterback job in mid-November, and he never looked back while leading San Francisco to a Super Bowl appearance.

For Alex Smith, the former No. 1 overall pick back in 2005, that meant his time with the Niners was likely over.

However according to ESPN.com's Chris Mortensen, the 49ers are-"highly, highly, highly unlikely" to release Smith.

San Francisco general manager-Trent Baalke-told reporters in Indianapolis that although no decision has been made on Smith's future, he has found the time to speak with him.

"We had a great discussion," Baalke said. "I can't say enough good things. And I think if you ask anyone in our organization, they would say the same thing: He is a pro's pro. And I have nothing but great respect for him, his family, and we're certainly going to do everything in our power to make the best decision for everyone involved.

"We're going to look at all options available. Are we going to trade him for sure? No, that hasn'