Smith is 29, his numbers have been down in 2006 and in 2007. 2005 was his last great year. He also missed games each of the past two seasons. He also has missed games in 5 out of 7 seasons as a pro. Smith is still a great player, but his best years are likely behind him. As he loses speed and his small body continues to take a pounding I am really not sure he will be an elite receiver into his 30’s.

This is the same story as many candidates that have been suggested for the Hawks to pick up. It just isn’t worth bringing on any expensive players who don’t have so many great years left. We have some veterans (burleson, engram, and later branch) and plenty of young receivers. We are going to need to ‘play through’ our lack of a true #1 right now.

Furthermore, Smith has a two game suspension hanging over his head for his last scruff.

Production numbers down? really, really? His quarterback isn’t that good andhe has been hurt a number of times in the last few years. Also his fellow receiving corps was the worst in the league. The other teams only had to key on him.

I already went through the “Jail Blazers” Era here in Portland. I don’t need to go through that again. Tow the line, P.A. Character first!