Steve Smith takes shot at NFL DBs in retirement letter

BALTIMORE, Jan. 7 (UPI) -- He was known as the little man packing a big punch during his 16-year NFL career.

On Jan. 2, Baltimore Ravens wide receiver took his final shot.

In a letter addressed to NFL commissioner Roger Goodell, Smith gave a parting gift to defensive backs.

"Dear Commissioner Goodell," Smith wrote.

"This is to notify you that as of today, I, Steve Smith Sr., will no longer be antagonizing defensive backs. I am retiring from the National Football League."

On Dec. 28, Smith officially said that his Week 17 battle against the Cincinnati Bengals would be his last game. He had 799 yards and five touchdowns on 70 receptions in 14 games.

Smith, 37, announced that the 2015 season would be his last, before tearing his achilles in Week 8. In December 2015, he announced he would return to the Ravens for another season.

The two-time All-Pro and five-time Pro Bowl selection wrapped up his 16-year NFL career with 14,731 yards and 81 touchdowns on 1,031 receptions.