3 reasons why Steve Smith is a first-ballot Hall of Famer
By Dean Jones
Former Carolina Panthers wide receiver is now officially eligible for the Pro Football Hall of Fame, but should the wide receiver go in on his first ballot in 2022?
The time has finally come for Steve Smith to enter the Pro Football Hall of Fame discussion. The former Carolina Panthers wide receiver is now an eligible candidate in 2022 after this year’s star-studded class that included Peyton Manning, Calvin Johnson, and Charles Woodson was announced. So there will be speculation between now and this time next year as to whether he is worthy of a first-ballot induction.
Make no mistake, there is a serious case to be made for this.
Smith’s career was nothing short of phenomenal. His time with the Panthers may have ended before it should have. But there was little doubting the player’s credentials during a 16-year stint in the NFL that concluded with 1,031 receptions, 14,731 receiving yards, and 81 touchdowns.
His individual accolades were also extremely noteworthy. Smith was a five-time Pro Bowler, made the first-team All-Pro roster on two occasions, and was the NFL’s Comeback Player of the Year in 2005.
These are some strong credentials that Smith is bringing to the table. Here are three reasons why he should be a first-ballot Hall of Famer next year.
Reason No. 1
Smith’s 2005 triple crown with the Carolina Panthers
When one examines the impact made by Steve Smith during his time in the NFL, then you have to start with his 2005 campaign. The wide receiver secured one of the rarest feats in league history – the notorious triple crown – and he remains the last player to top the standings in receiving years, touchdowns, and receptions.
The Carolina Panthers saw the very best of Smith during this time. He was almost unguardable wherever he lined up and ended the season with 103 receptions, 1,563 receiving yards, and 12 scores.
Whether another wideout will achieve this incredible accolade in the pass-happy world of today’s NFL with so much talent is up for debate. However, nobody can take this away from Smith and this alone might be enough to see the player selected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame on the first ballot.