Raiders recently released Antonio Smith catches on with Broncos

The Broncos and Antonio Smith wasted no time in striking a deal after the Raiders released him. He was released on Tuesday and signed by the Broncos on Thursday. His agent Drew Rosenhaus announced it is a 1-year, $2 million deal for the 33-year-old defensive tackle.

His release from the Raiders one season into a 2-year deal was a bit of a surprise. He saved $4 million against the cap this season, but the Raiders didn't need the money. They currently still have some $22 million to spend under the 2015 salary cap.

The self-named "Ninja Warrior" has a big personality and is extremely well-liked by his teammates and the media. He was also productive on the field, with the second most QB hurries (35) in the league among defensive tackles.

He struggled against the run, and was still useful as a situational pass rusher who could shift over to defensive end when needed. Though it seems clear that when the team added Dan Williams, they didn't feel Smith  was worth $4 million to be a rotational player.

Now the Raiders will face him twice next season.

Follow @LeviDamien