Steve Smith eyeing a 2016 return after Achilles’ tear, per report

Nov 1, 2015; Baltimore, MD, USA; Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Steve Smith, Sr. (89) is injured while being tackled by San Diego Chargers cornerback Jason Verrett (22) in the third quarter at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports

The 2015 season was supposed to go much differently, for both the Baltimore Ravens and their wide receiver Steve Smith.  But in the midst of what was only the team’s second victory of the season in week 8 against the San Diego Chargers, Smith suffered a season ending Achilles’ tear.

After a stellar, Hall of Fame worthy career, no one expected Smith to stick to his guns in regards to his initial decision.  And now Jason LaCanfora of CBS Sports is reporting that Steve Smith indeed intends to return for another season in 2016 after he undergoes surgery on November 9th.

"Smith had said this would be his final season but several people close to him said he is already talking about a return and the Ravens would welcome him back. Smith faces a long return, but the sooner he gets the Achilles repaired the earlier he could conceivably make it back in 2016. Dr. Robert Anderson, an esteemed surgeon, is scheduled to conduct the repair in Charlotte next week."

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Smith was still playing at a high level prior to his injury, ranking 8th in receiving yards among all NFL wide receivers, despite missing more than a game with various injuries.  The struggling Ravens, despite rumors to the contrary, refused to entertain trade offers for the mercurial Smith prior to today’s deadline.

Head coach John Harbaugh didn’t hide his opinion on the matter following Sunday’s win.  “I have a feeling Steve Smith will be back.  I love him, respect him, admire him. I told him that. That’s the kind of man he is and he’ll be back.”

Neither did Smith’s agent, who said on Friday (before the injury) that he thought Smith’s chances of returning for another season were “50-50.”  It’s not a surprise for a guy who is one of the most passionate players in the game, one who leaves everything on the field week in and week out.

Next: How the Ravens will compensate for Steve Smith's loss

So for now, it appears that Steve Smith will be back in a Ravens uniform for one last run at a title in 2016.  Smith has designs of going out on his terms, which will hopefully be as a major cog for a Super Bowl contender.