We pointed out in our Baltimore Ravens Offseason Forecast that Baltimore desperately needs to add targets for quarterback Joe Flacco.
Torrey Smith agrees.
The field-stretching wide receiver says the team is missing a "move-the-chains guy" to help the Ravens out of tight situations.
"That's probably someone that we need on a consistent basis," Smith said last week, per the Ravens' official website. "Another weapon like that is just another person that Joe can rely on."
Retaining tight endDennis Pitta would help, but Baltimore's offense is crying out for more versatility. Behind Smith, five of the team's seven leading pass-catchers were running backs or tight ends. Rookie Marlon Brown showed promise, but he and Jacoby Jones combined for just 86 catches at 11.4 yards per reception.
For all the outstanding front-office maneuvering by Ozzie Newsome over the years, the general manager can't look back fondly on the Anquan Boldin trade. He's exactly the kind of guy Smith is referring to.
The upside for Baltimore is a deep and varied draft at the receiver position. We also expect the Ravens, with more salary-cap space than a year ago, to be active (but wise) in free agency. Look for Flacco to have more options in 2014.
On the latest edition of the "Around The League Podcast," the guys talk about the Jim Harbaugh drama in San Francisco and discuss who made the most striking impression at the NFL Scouting Combine.