Alex Smith admitted Wednesday in his first interview in months that it would be difficult for him to resurrect his career with the 49ers. Smith, who went on injured reserve Sept. 10 and had shoulder surgery Oct. 30, said, "It would be harder, absolutely. Without a doubt. When you come in with that kind of expectation, it's frustrating for me that it hasn't come to fruition. I absolutely think it might be harder." However, he added, "It's something that gets me going - you get that chip on your shoulder, trying to prove everybody wrong." Smith said he should begin throwing the ball next month for the first time since his surgery and should be able to participate in a spring mini-camp. "From everything I understand, long term there will be no issues," he said. "There will be no difference from where I was before the injuries. The nice thing is ... it's not actually my shoulder joint. It has more to do with my collarbone. I'm just continuing to strengthen it and continue my rehab."