The NFL knows a juicy preseason game when it sees one.
The 49ers visit Kansas City and former quarterback Alex Smith in their second preseason game, the league announced Thursday. After eight seasons in San Francisco, Smith was traded to Kansas City for a second-round draft pick (no. 34 overall) this year and a conditional pick in 2014.
Smith is now the Chiefs' starter, and starting players typically don't play very much in preseason games. But the Chiefs also have a new coach and new offense, so Smith's time under center against the 49ers likely will be significant.
The 49ers selected Smith No. 1 overall in the 2005 draft. He was having his best season in 2012 when he suffered a concussion and was replaced by Colin Kaepernick.
Despite the intriguing story line, the game won't be televised nationally. Instead, the 49ers' game the following week, against Minnesota on Aug. 25, will be broadcast at 5 p.m. on NBC.
For the second straight year, the 49ers won't play the Raiders after violence in the stands and parking lot in 2011 put a hiatus on the rivalry.
The Raiders host Dallas in their first preseason game. They'll also host Chicago in Week 3.
Read Matthew Barrows' blogs and archives at www.sacbee.com/sf49ers and listen for his reports Tuesdays on ESPN Radio 1320. Follow him on Twitter @mattbarrows.
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