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It's official, former Panthers wide receiver Steve Smith is on the market.
The #Panthers have released WR Steve Smith.
— Carolina Panthers (@Panthers) March 13, 2014
Smith is expected to receive plenty of attention on the open market, especially because he'll likely come on the cheap as the Panthers will owe him $3 million regardless of where he signs. There is no offset salary language in Smith's contract.
According to the Baltimore Sun's Aaron Wilson, there is mutual interest between Smith and the Ravens. Personally, I love the idea of Smith signing with the Ravens on nothing more than a two-year deal.
Here's a post I wrote earlier in the week with five reasons Steve Smith is a perfect fit for the Ravens in 2014.
The Panthers also issued some statements on Smith's release:
Statement from #Panthers GM Dave Gettleman on the release of Steve Smith: http://t.co/LX9ULz9Rym
— Carolina Panthers (@Panthers) March 13, 2014
Rivera: "He's a great competitor with Hall of Fame worthy stats and has made great contributions to our community. I wish him the best."
— Carolina Panthers (@Panthers) March 13, 2014