The Baltimore Ravens have announced that they have released linebacker Daryl SmithÂ
The Baltimore Ravens came into the 2016 offseason needing to create more cap space so they can add more pieces to their team. Extending quarterback Joe Flacco created approximately $7 million in cap room, enough to sign the upcoming draft class and little else. Now, they have created even more by releasing linebacker Daryl Smith.
Cuts keep coming: Ravens released veteran linebacker Daryl Smith, per source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 3, 2016
Smith had 121 tackles during the 2015 season with three sacks and one interception. The 33-year-old linebacker was signed to help replace Ray Lewis after he retired. C.J. Mosley’s emergence and unexpected contributions caused Smith to be a bit of a surplus. Cutting Smith will save the Ravens roughly $2.5 million in cap space in 2016 and $3.5 million in cap space in 2017.
Baltimore wants to sign offensive lineman and current free agent Kelechi Osemele long-term, which could explain the release as well.
Smith might be aging, but he is still productive. Expect him to have a number of suitors, especially at a low price considering position and age. Smith has 1,066 career tackles in 174 games and didn’t miss a game during his three seasons in Baltimore with 388 tackles in 48 games.
The Ravens could be interested in bringing him back at a cheaper price, but teams will likely offer more than what Baltimore can give.
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