Washington Redskins QB Alex Smith heaps praise on WR Jamison Crowder

Washington Redskins quarterback Alex Smith sees a great deal of promise in wide receiver Jamison Crowder.

Smith praised Crowder's vision and instincts on the field, a combination that could make the speedy wideout invaluable to the 34-year-old quarterback this season.

"He's so easy to read as a quarterback," Smith said, via ESPN.com. "Such great body control, body language. He sees defenses well and it's hardest to do that in between the hashes. You get so many looks and leverages and you have to handle all those things. He's decisive and he's so friendly. He's always coming back to the ball, always working for you.

"Those are things you know as a quarterback come crunch time that here's a guy who will constantly work his tail off to get open. He wants the ball. You love that as a quarterback."

Crowder struggled during his first six games last season as he collected just 19 catches for 149 yards and no scores. The 25-year-old finished with a flourish, however, recording 66 receptions for 789 yards and three touchdowns last season.

Smith set career highs in passing yards (4,042), touchdowns (26) and passer rating (104.7) last season with the Kansas City Chiefs. He posted a 50-26 record as a starter since arriving in Kansas City in 2013 and has made two straight Pro Bowl appearances.