After coming to Baltimore from Carolina in 2014, Steve Smith Sr. made an immediate impact as the Ravens’ leading receiver. But the team knew the 36-year-old veteran’s stay would only be temporary compared to his 13 storied years in Carolina. We now know that Smith will end his career in purple after two seasons.
On Monday, Smith Sr. announced he will retire from the NFL after the 2015-16 season, capping a 15-year NFL career that currently has the 5 ft. 9 in. pass-catching dynamo at 14th on the all-time receiving yards list. Smith said he’s looking to spend more time with his family. He and his wife Angie, who still make their home in Carolina, have four children.
But Smith Sr. has clearly relished his time in Baltimore. Along with being a favorite target of Joe Flacco, the Ravens’ brash, hard-nosed nature were an immediate fit for Smith’s style. When the Panthers came to town, Smith put up two touchdowns. Always just as quick with words Smith was sure to add that he “ran around them boys like they were school-yard kids.”
“If it’s the end, I feel like it’s the best place for it to end,” the wide receiver said Monday.
