When the Ravens parted ways with Daryl Smith a little over a year ago, I assumed they would spend relatively significant dollars to replace him.
Maybe not big-big money, but Smith, a veteran inside linebacker, was the team’s top tackler and defensive signal-caller, a key figure. That sounded like a hole you needed to fill in free agency, with a “name” veteran who possessed a track record.
I offered that opinion with escalating urgency as the offseason proceeded and the front office elected not to replace Smith with a “name,” instead giving the job to Zachary Orr.