NFL Experience: 4 Years

Drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in Round 2

College: Maryland

                                             2013 Statistics

Games             Rec                  Yards              AVG               Points

16                     65                    1128               17.40              138.80

Best Performance

Week 4 AT- Buffalo: 5 receptions, 166 receiving yards, one touchdown

This early season breakout performance by Smith was just what fantasy owners were hoping for and when they drafted him in 2013. With an average of an impressive 33.5 yards per reception, and a touchdown score, Smith was playing like a winner, even though the Ravens lost to the Bills 20-13.  Unfortunately, Week 4 was like watching the fireworks finale, because that was the best Smith performed all year.

Best Four-Game Stretch

Weeks 2-5: 21 receptions, 464 total yards, one touchdown

Smith’s most optimal weeks of performance took place early in the 2013 season. Averaging over 115 receiving yards per game during Weeks 2-5 was notable enough, but only one touchdown, kept Smith’s fantasy numbers at bay. The Ravens pulled off three wins against the Browns, Texans and Dolphins and Smith did more than his fair share to contribute.  

At this point those who drafted Smith were modestly happy, but his numbers were still lacking true WR1 quality compared to fellow top receivers.

Lowest Statistical Standpoint

Week 6 VS Green Bay: one receptions, 12 yards, zero touchdowns

Starting Smith in Week 6, was a huge letdown as he only had one lousy catch for 1.20 fantasy points. Green Bay stole a win from the Ravens also, 17-19. This was Smith’s all-time 2013 low and it foreshadowed more weeks of dismal fantasy numbers, causing Smith owners the painstaking decision whether to trust him or leave him benched week after week.

2013 Season at a Glance

Overall, Smith wasn’t dazzling and did not pan out with WR1 numbers as many thought would have happened due to the Raven’s absence of Anquan Boldin, which left Smith, the No. 1 man. He started off the season bringing quality numbers to the table, but due to heavy coverage throughout the season, and sketchy quarterback play by Joe Flacco both failed to have much of a productive connection.

Four receiving touchdowns also reduced Smith’s value, overshadowing the fact that he had over 1,100 receiving yards. Smith’s lack of ability to score tanked his fantasy numbers, ultimately earning him the ranking of 20th among fellow wide receivers.

2014 Outlook

Those who had high hopes for Smith in 2013 were ultimately disappointed. Unless Flacco miraculously improves, it would be challenging for Smith’s performance to see much of a boost in 2014. The Ravens also have their capable tight end, Dennis Pitta back from his hip injury, so there presents another goal line threat in stealing the touchdowns.

The Ravens may add more wide receivers during the free agency period, and have just re-signed receiver, Jacoby Jones. A crowded receiving backfield coupled with often inadequate quarterback play will probably keep Smith’s fantasy value nearly the same as it was last season. He’s a WR2/flex for consideration in 2014 fantasy drafts.

Next Up: No. 90, T.Y. Hilton, Wide Receiver, Indianapolis Colts