Ravens CB Jimmy Smith Will Test Free Agency

Cornerback Jimmy Smith celebrates after recording a sack in a Ravens victory.
Photo credit Photo Courtesy: USA Today

By Austin Medina 

The Ravens have already begun making roster decisions, clearing up $7 million in cap space by releasing safety Tony Jefferson. 

The free agency period will begin on March 18th and certain Raven free agents may elect to test free agency. 

Cornerback Jimmy Smith is expected to test free agency, as GM Eric DeCosta stated at a press conference Wednesday. 

Eric DeCosta's media session yesterday included much of what was already known: Tag is in play for Judon, Humphrey's 5th-year option will get exercised, Carr's option might not get picked up.Only new development was DeCosta saying he thinks CB Jimmy Smith will test free agency.

— Jamison Hensley (@jamisonhensley) February 26, 2020

Baltimore is in position to re-sign Smith, as they currently hold $30.7 million in cap space according to OverTheCap. With that said, the pricetag must be right on a third cornerback in Smith.

Smith, 31, is a terrific defender when healthy. He has missed 20 games over the past four seasons, with injuries to his back, ankle, Achilles, and even a suspension. 

The Ravens currently have Marlon Humphrey, Marcus Peters, and Tavon Young as their top-three corner backs. Veteran corner Brandon Carr is also returning in 2020, so signing Smith would be more luxury than need. 

Baltimore drafted Smith in the 1st round of the 2011 NFL Draft. When available, Smith has been a consummate professional. Smith is one of six Ravens who played for the 2012 Super Bowl team. The other five include guard Marshal Yanda, punter Sam Koch, kicker Justin Tucker, safety Anthony Levine Sr., and defensive end Pernell McPhee.  

For Smith, and McPhee, the Ravens have more decisions to make if they want to keep the same roster from 2019.