In Week 2 of the 2015 regular season, Oakland Raiders rookie wide receiver Amari Cooper beat Ravens cornerback Jimmy Smith for a 68-yard touchdown early in the first quarter. This play was a microcosm of the Ravens disappointing season, as the defensive backs were simply unable to stifle potent passing attacks and make the plays necessary to win close games.
Before the 2015 season began, #1 cornerback Jimmy Smith signed a 4-year $41.1 million contract, more than $10 million average annual salary. But at the end of last season, it was clear that Smith's Lisfranc foot injury suffered in the middle of the 2014 season had effected his play.