When the Carolina Panthers released wide receiver Steve Smith in the offseason, the common thinking was that he's too old, washed up and a headache in the locker room. Smith -- who built his career off the chip on his shoulder -- signed with the Baltimore Ravens, re-branded himself as "Sr." and set out to prove the critics wrong.
Fantasy football start/sit advice, Week 7: Steve Smith
Steve Smith appears to have found a second wind with the Ravens. He should keep up his fantasy production against the Falcons.
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Smith has proven that he not only has something left in the tank, but that he's still one of the best receivers in the league at age 35. Through six games, he has 35 catches for 573 yards and four touchdowns. New offensive coordinator Gary Kubiak has his favored "X receiver" in the offense, a role that gets peppered with targets and helped make Andre Johnson a star. Many people thought Torrey Smith would get that position, but it appears to have gone to Steve Smith instead. Torrey Smith has been a massive disappointment, getting just 15 catches for 227 yards and three touchdowns.
Fantasy impact: Maybe it's time we stop doubting Steve Smith until he actually shows tangible decline on the field -- he continues to age like a fine wine. Smith is firmly back in WR2 territory and should keep rolling against the Atlanta Falcons, who have one of the worst pass defenses in the league. Fantasy owners should keep starting him with confidence.
