Ike Taylor is serious about Steve Smith's Excellence

Ike Taylor continues his odd, wacky, often hilarious post-career tour.

The former Pittsburgh Steeler Defensive Back has proven to be unpredictably candid and effortlessly funny in his public appearances that include guest spots on NFL Network shows as a commentator.

This stop: high praise for Steve Smith, and comparing him to Steelers WR Antonio Brown by putting them in the same category.

According to the always-excellent Ravens Late for Work column, by Sarah Ellison for BaltimoreRavens.com,  Ike Tuner named Smith, Sr. as the only current receiver who is comparable to Brown.

Taylor did have a caveat: "Right now, with Smith injured and nearing the end of his career, AB is hands-down the best receiver in the league. He endlessly works at improving his craft and that's why he's experiencing rare success. If he can play the next three or so years at this level, he's going to be considered one of the greatest receivers to ever play the game."

It will be interesting, going forward, to hear Taylor's views once Smith, Sr. returns to the field in 2016.  At the least, Smith Sr. will be healed up and rested, potentially with help in the Ravens receiving core and possibly less pressure to perform.  This could lead to defenses not giving him the attention that Taylor insists that he merits.

Which could easily lead to another Ike Taylor monologue.  Hopefully.