Kenny Smith retires

Legendary Cincinnati QB calls it quits after 14 seasons
By "Porsche Lynn Commode"

Off-Season 2245 (Cincinnati) - The Cincinnati Bengals today lost a legend when veteran QB Kenny Smith retired after a distinguished 14 year career.

Signed as a college free agent in 2230, no one expected the young man to be no more than a career backup. But by 2234, he was the starter until last season when he gave way to sensational waiver wire pickup Duncan McKenzie.

Smith ends his career as the 6th leading passer in Bengals history with 30,988 yards and 191 career TDs. In three seasons he came close to the MVP award but never walked away with the hardware, prompting him on the last occasion to say he would never accept it even if offered after that.

'Kenny will go down as one of the greatest we ever had at the position, which is saying something with some of the great quarterbacks we have had,' Bengals GM 'Trader' Lee Remley said at Smith's retirement press conference. 'We are glad he is going to stay with the organization.'

The Bengals were so impressed with Kenny's mentoring of the young McKenzie that he was offered the official job of QB coach when he retired, which he happily accepted.

'I am glad for the opportunity to stay in the game,' Smith said. 'I feel I have a lot to give to the game in other ways as far as my knowledge, so I am glad to get into coaching and help shape the next generation of Bengals.'

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