Report: Steve Smith is a receiver of interest for the Ravens

Could wide receiver Steve Smith be in Baltimore's short-term plans?

According to the Baltimore Sun's Aaron Wilson, it appears that way. There looks to be mutual interest between both parties, though neither side would be able to communicate since Smith is technically still under contract with the Panthers.

It was previously reported that the Panthers were seeking a deal for Smith, due a $4 million base salary this season. But his contract and age (35 this May) could make a trade difficult. Therefore, it's quite possible that Smith is released at some point in the near future.

The report states that the Ravens would be strong contenders, along with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Smith finished 2013 with only 745 receiving yards and four touchdowns, but he was working alongside a cast of Brandon LaFell, Ted Ginn and Domenik Hixon. Carolina's leading receiver in 2013 was tight end Greg Olsen at 816 yards and six touchdowns.

Smith could be a short-term solution since he can play inside and outside receiver. It would allow the Ravens some flexibility in the draft so that they can select someone to groom in the second or third round instead of going after one in the first, which could allow them to address a different need, such as safety, defensive line or inside linebacker.