Torrey Smith is free to test the open market. The veteran wide receiver is receiving his release from the San Francisco 49ers, an expected move considering his level of play and his salary cap number. What may have been more surprising to the average NFL fan is the intrepid reporter who broke the news: Steve Smith Sr., the recently retired NFL receiver.
Getting his release
Torrey Smith signed a big deal with the San Francisco 49ers two seasons ago after some strong years with the Baltimore Ravens. His five-year, $40 million deal was considered a lot for the deep threat around NFL circles, though, and that proved to largely be the case.
In two seasons in the Bay Area, he recorded just 930 receiving yards and seven touchdowns, failing to justify his humongous contract.
Smith may not be entirely to blame for his poor numbers, though. He has been forced to deal with poor quarterback play in San Francisco, from Colin Kaepernick to Blaine Gabbert. He also had to deal with a concussion at the end of this past season, which eliminated his final four games of the year. It became clear that the relationship between the two sides was not working out and a separation was the best way to proceed.
Looking to the future
San Francisco is bereft at the wide receiver position, with their top receiver currently being slot man Jeremy Kerley. The team has a lot of needs and the position may not be as essential to solve as the quarterback position.
Nevertheless, the team will likely look at options in the draft or in the free agent market, including Washington Redskins free agent Pierre Garcon and Chicago Bears free agent Alshon Jeffery.
Meanwhile, Smith, who turned 28-years-old in January, won't command a major deal after his busted years in San Francisco. He could still provide a valuable deep weapon for a team in need of a third receiver, though, and was the subject of trade rumors throughout 2016. Some teams that should consider signing him include the Philadelphia Eagles, the Cincinnati Bengals, and the New England Patriots.
