John Harbaugh thinks Steve Smith Sr. will return to NFL despite plan to retire

Baltimore Ravens head coach John Harbaugh told reporters that he is confident Steve Smith with return to football after recovering from his injury.

Baltimore Ravens coach John Harbaugh told reporters he is confident that wide receiver Steve Smith Sr. will return to football after he recovers from the torn Achilles that ended his season on Sunday.

“I have a feeling Steve Smith will be back,” Harbaugh said, according to ESPN. “I love him, respect him, admire him. I told him that. That’s the kind of man he is, and he’ll be back.”

Smith, 36, ​announced in August his plans to retire after the conclusion of the 2015 season. He spent the first 13 years of his career with the Carolina Panthers before signing a three-year contract with the Ravens in March 2014.​

Harbaugh went on to clarify that he wasn’t making an official announcement on behalf of Smith, but simply sharing an opinion based on his relationship with the five-time Pro Bowler.

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Smith was carried off the field in the third quarter of Sunday’s 29–26 victory over the San Diego Chargers, and Harbaugh later announced the tear to his Achilles would end Smith’s season.

The 15-year veteran has recorded at least 1,000 receiving yards in eight different seasons of his career. This season, Smith has 46 catches for 670 yards and three touchdowns.

Smith posted a message on Twitter after the game on Sunday thanking Ravens fans for their support.