The Baltimore Ravens quickly took advantage of wide receiver Steve Smith's release from the Carolina Panthers by signing him only a day after he hit the free agent market.
According to USA Today, the Ravens signed Smith to a three-year contract worth $11.5 million. A $3.5 million signing bonus is included in the deal.
The 34-year-old receiver spent all 13 years of his career with the Panthers and ranks 19th in the NFL all-time in receptions. Smith had other suitors hoping to sign him after his release.
The San Diego Chargers offered him a contract, and he was scheduled to visit the New England Patriots on Monday. The Seattle Seahawks and Washington Redskins were also interested in signing Smith.
According to ESPN, Smith ultimately chose the Ravens because a flight from Baltimore to Charlotte would only take an hour, and his family plans to remain in Charlotte.
The Ravens will look to get their passing offense back on track after losing Anquan Boldin to the San Francisco 49ers. They will also aim to return to the playoffs after finishing 8-8.
Photo Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons
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