Clifton Brown of CSN Baltimore expects Ravens impending free agent ILB Daryl Smith to be on the radar of the Broncos and Titans this offseason.
This is of course assuming that Smith is even available to field offers on the open market. Brown refers to Smith as an “important piece” of the Ravens’ offseason puzzle.
Smith has said that he would like to return to Baltimore next season, and it’s not as though the Ravens have an obvious replacement ready to step in and perform at that level. Arthur Brown was drafted last year, so there is a chance he’s prepared to make a leap in year two.
As for the Broncos and Titans, they could probably use some depth at the position, but I doubt that they would be willing to engage in a serious bidding war for Smith.
Denver may have limited caps space to work with, and whatever they do have may be better used to fill holes on their offensive and defensive lines. There is of course the Jack Del Rio-connection as the two were both in Jacksonville a few years ago.
Tennessee is in better position to afford him, especially depending on what happens with CB Alterraun Verner, but they too have other areas that could take precedent over a veteran inside linebacker.
Smith, 31, has done enough this season to warrant a multi-year contract after he signed just a one-year deal worth $1.125 million last year. This could make it tough for the Ravens seeing as this could very well be his last chance to sign a decent contract.
We have Smith listed as the No. 56 player in our Top 100 Free Agents list.
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