Steve Smith is a Sure Fire Hall of Famer

Jan 10, 2015; Foxborough, MA, USA; Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Steve Smith (89) celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the New England Patriots during the first quarter in the 2014 AFC Divisional playoff football game at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark L. Baer-USA TODAY Sports

Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Steve Smith Sr. announced Monday that the 2015-16 NFL season would be his last. My mind immediately shifted to the debate of whether or not the 15-year veteran belongs in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. The answer to that question is simple. Yes.

While it can be argued that Smith may not make the cut the first year he is on the ballot, but the fact that he belongs in Canton is not really up for debate. He is easily one of the greatest wideouts of the past decade.

The accolades and accomplishments speak for themselves:

Named to the Pro Bowl five times
Smith has eclipsed the 1,000-yard receiving mark eight times in his career (with eight different quarterbacks).
Since his rookie season (2001), he ranks third in receiving yards (13,262).
Only player, other than Tim Brown, to amass 13,000 receiving yards and 4,000 return yards for a career
Led the NFL in touchdowns, receiving yards, and touchdowns in 2005
Needs just 638 yards to be in the all-time top 10 in receiving yards

Jan 12, 2014; Charlotte, NC, USA; Carolina Panthers wide receiver Steve Smith (89) walks on to the field prior to the 2013 NFC divisional playoff football game at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports

These are some very impressive numbers, but there are some other receivers who are likely to be inducted before Smith gets the call. Greats like Marvin Harrison and Isaac Bruce have been snubbed and should be making it in the near future. Additionally, over the next three years, Terrell Owens, Hines Ward, and Randy Moss will become eligible for the ballot.

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It shouldn’t really be a question of “if” he’ll get in, but more so “when” he’ll get in. Simply judging by the number, Smith is a Hall of Famer. But, when you delve deep into his impact on the game of football, it becomes a no-brainer. He is arguably the toughest receiver in NFL history and his trash-talking prowess is rivaled by few others. The attitude Smith brings when he takes the field is infectious and opposing players best have their big boy pants on when they line up against him.

Considering the crowded crop of receivers who are already in line for induction, Smith likely will not be a first ballot HOF’er, but he will undeniably be there one day.

Next: Will Hill Named to SI All-Breakout Team

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