Alex Smith injury: 49ers QB seeking second opinion on head injury, according to report

With the San Francisco 49ers facing a crucial game against the Bears on Monday night, quarterback Alex Smith is seeking a second opinion on a concussion he received last Sunday afternoon against the St. Louis Rams.

The news was first reported by Pro Football Talk on Wednesday.

According to Pro Football Talk, Smith has not been cleared to play in the 49ers next game, and has now sought out the second opinion of an independent neurologist. Depending on what Smith's symptoms are, he could be diagnosed with a mild concussion or no concussion at all, however at this time it's unclear whether any diagnosis would result with Smith getting back on the field Monday night.

For Smith though, the long-term effects of the injury could be mitigated by the short-term realization that if he doesn't play Monday he could lose his starting job.

In Smith's absence last Sunday against the Rams, back-up Colin Kaepernick played well, completing 11 of 17 passes for 117 yards and rushed for 66 as well.