Carolina Panthers No. 89: 3 reasons why Steve Smith was so great
By Dean Jones
2. A competitive edge like no other
Another thing about Steve Smith that made him so great was his competitive edge, which was on another level. He was renowned for being one of the best trash-talkers in the game and would almost constantly be jawing at opposing players on and off the field.
This is something that he more than backed up during his time with the Carolina Panthers. Smith’s self-motivation was second to none. And if any teammates were not pulling their weight on gameday he would be the first to try and rectify the situation.
The feisty attitude he brought to the field was ultra-productive. Although it did tend to spill over on occasions. This is something the Panthers were willing to accept given how well Smith performed individually and made others around him better.
Related Story. Carolina Panthers: Steve Smith rightfully named offensive G.O.A.T. light
His efforts on the field and the attitude he had will always be remembered by those who were fortunate enough to watch him play. He was not your stereotypical receiver, neither in height nor the way he conducted himself. But it was hard to argue with the results.
Smith’s unrivaled passion for the Panthers was there for all to see. And it is something that still comes across to this day whenever you see the iconic player on NFL Network as an analyst. Those that passed on him in the NFL Draft could only watch on with envy at the impact Smith made in Carolina.