Steve Smith Sr. says thanks to city of Baltimore
After 16 years in the NFL, the veteran WR showed his appreciation for Ravens Nation.
There are truly some players you feel will play for ever. Steve Smith Sr. was certainly one of those players. Full of competitive spirit and energy, Smith seemed like he might just never retire. However, Father Time is undefeated, and at age 37, he has claimed the Ravens wide receiver. To show all his gratitude to the people of Baltimore and the Ravens organization, Smith took out an ad in the local Baltimore Sun newspaper:
Smith indicates that Baltimore was a wonderful transition city for his last three seasons as a pro. The city quickly became a home to him, and it is evident he was very grateful for this. It cannot be forgotten how Smith exited his first NFL home, Carolina, which only enlarged the chip that was always firmly glued to his shoulder. Smith felt the Panthers thought he had nothing left to offer once he became an unrestricted free agent. After all he had accomplished in Carolina, he viewed this as the ultimate sign of disrespect. Time heals all wounds, but it should be interesting to see what comes of the relationship between Smith and his former employer.
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Always one of the more under-appreciated receivers in the NFL, Smith had over 1,000 receptions in his career with close to 15,000 yards. Even in his final season, the WR finished with 70 catches for 799 yards and five touchdowns. Not bad for a 37-year-old. Smith’s legacy will be his fiery attitude that fueled his performance on Sundays. He had a knack for the big play that could stick a fork in any defense. Full of heart and grit, Smith will be missed by Carolina, Baltimore, and NFL fans all over the map. Happy retirement to #89.