Steve Smith is a step closer to reserving a possible place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
The passionate, rage-fueled receiver recorded reception No. 1,000 in his career with a 22-yard catch in the third quarter of the Ravens' 27-17 loss Sunday, becoming the 14th receiver in NFL history to reach 1,000 catches. Smith moved into a tie for 13th-most receptions in NFL history with former Steelers wide receiver Hines Ward and is just 24 grabs from tying Isaac Bruce at 12th all-time.
Smith spent the majority of his career -- 13 years -- with the Carolina Panthers, before signing with the Baltimore Ravens after an acrimonious exit from Charlotte in 2014. Since joining the Ravens, Smith has tallied 161 catches for 2,152 yards and 11 touchdowns through 30 games.