"In a post on the Baltimore Sun's Ravens Insider blog, Edward Lee speculated about the possibility of Carolina Panther WR Steve Smith becoming a Raven. The speculation stems from a report back in May in which Smith, who is likely done with the Panthers, expressed his desire to play in either Oakland, San Diego, or Baltimore. It is an odd time to consider the possibility of Smith becoming a Raven, but an NFL writer has to write about something during the lock-out.

It is also hard to know whether or not Smith would make financial sense for the Ravens. He is owed $15 million over the final 2 years of his deal, which is a hefty price tag for an aging receiver on a team with other aging receivers. There is the possibility that the NFL will have another uncapped year in 2011, which could make the finances of acquiring Smith more workable. The question remains as to whether or not Smith would add much to the Ravens.

Smith has been a dynamic talent for years. His speed and play-making ability have made him one of the NFL's premier receivers despite his smaller stature. Smith would add a dimension that hte Ravens do not currently have among their receivers, that is the ability to both stretch the field and to make plays on underneath routes, turning short completions into big plays. The problem is that Smith's numbers have dropped off significantly in the last two seasons. That can be pinned on a poor offense in Carolina, but does Smith figure to see a significant increase in balls were he to join a crowded group of receivers in Baltimore?"