Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Steve Smith announced in a news conference Monday that this upcoming season will be his last in the NFL.
“I feel like it’s my time,” Smith said in a quote via ESPN. “All the chips are on the table. Let’s see what the dealer gives me.”
Steve Smith to Retire after 2015 NFL Season
Smith, 36, is entering his 15th season in the league. In his first season with the Ravens in 2014, he recorded 79 passes for 1,065 yards and six touchdowns. Selected in the third round by the Carolina Panthers in 2001, Smith has earned five Pro Bowl selections during his 14-year tenure. Tallying 915 receptions, 13,262 yards and 73 touchdowns, he is one of only 12 players in NFL history to amass 900 catches, 13,000 receiving yards and 70 touchdowns. He currently ranks 18th all-time in receptions, 14th in receiving yards and 33rd in touchdowns. Small in his physical stature at 5’9”, Smith has been regarded as one of the most dynamic and fiery players in league history.
With the team already losing Torrey Smith in Free Agency, the loss of Steve Smith after the 2015 season will force the Ravens to readdress their wide receiver depth next year. They will certainly be dipping into the free agent pool, or drafting some targets for Joe Flacco to throw to.
Main Photo:
Main Photo: FOXBORO, MA. January 10: Steve Smith #89 of the Baltimore Ravens walks off the field following the 2015 AFC Divisional Playoffs game against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium on January 10, 2015 in Foxboro, Massachusetts. (Photo by Jared Wickerham / Getty Images).
