Former Ohio State Buckeye and Heisman winning quarterback Troy Smith is unhappy with his situation in Baltimore and feels that he would have a better chance to prove his worth if he moved back home to Cleveland Ohio. The former fifth-round draft pick would like the chance to start under center, and current Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco does not appear to be relinquishing his duties any time soon. Given the situation in Cleveland, and his ties to the area, Smith says that his dream would be to play for the Orange and Brown.
“There is no doubt about it,” Smith said ”It has always been a childhood dream of mine. It’s funny how we always talk about Cleveland. That’s the first thing that comes to mind with anything I do whether I get a chance to come home and be a part of that organization or not.
As the quarterback situation in Cleveland continues to be up in the air, Browns fans will be treated to a handful of rumors between now and the start of training camp. Those that had hopes for Donovan McNabb coming to Cleveland will have to consider other options if Andy Reid’s reported words of McNabb’s return to Philadelphia indeed hold true. Coupling this with the relatively weak free agent class, the words of Smith may perk the ears of Browns fans.
“You know, I would love to get that chance if that opportunity comes up, but the political and right thing to say in this situation is that I would love to be anywhere that would give me a chance,” continued Smith. ”But, without a doubt, there would be no second guessing in my mind if I could come back home and be a part of something that I love.”
A dual-threat quarterback, Smith had the shot at starting in 2008. After coming down with tonsillitis, the Ravens were forced to start their (then) rookie quarterback and have not looked back since. The ties to Ohio State as well as Cleveland’s Glenville Academic Campus are typically items that Browns fans tend to rank highly when analyzing players. In this case, Smith’s accuracy – as well as his mobility – may be something that Browns president Mike Holmgren would like if the team moves forward with a “West Coast” type scheme.
Smith is currently a restricted free agent with the Ravens. In 14 games through the past three seasons, he has completed 48 of 89 passes for 558 yards, three touchdowns and one interception. Smith also rushed for 109 yards and two touchdowns while catching one pass for 36 yards. Though Smith’s trade value is very low, it is believed that the Ravens would welcome trade proposals given their certainty at the quarterback position.
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(h/t PFT)
