Playoff appearance triggers $1 million bonus for Alex Smith

The San Francisco 49ers have made it clear they intend to re-sign quarterback Alex Smith, who helped them to a 13-3 record this season in a surprising turnaround during Jim Harbaugh’s first year in charge.

Smith, the club’s former No. 1 overall pick, enjoyed a career season and now he stands to be rewarded. But before this season ends, he’s picking up some bonuses for his work. Smith will receive a $1 million bonus for taking the 49ers into the playoffs, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN.

It’s a nice cap to a productive year for him. Smith’s base salary was $4 million and he already triggered a $1.5 million bonus that was tied to playing time. That brings his haul to at least $6.5 million, just a fraction of what he should get in the way of a long-term extension.

If the 49ers, the second seed in the NFC playoffs, can advance, Smith will only bolster his position.

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Brad Biggs covers the Bears for the Chicago Tribune

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