4 Carolina Panthers players who caught the eye at OTAs

Rodney Smith – Carolina Panthers RB

Another player that drew praise from Matt Rhule for his efforts at OTAs was Rodney Smith. The running back made a solid impression when he saw the field as a rookie late in the 2020 campaign and he’s putting this newfound experience to good use in the early portion of the preparation period.

Smith got the chance to shine a little more due to Chuba Hubbard missing a portion of the week with an injury. Many expect the fourth-round pick to serve as the No. 2 behind Christian McCaffrey, but the former Minnesota star could keep himself in the coaching staff’s plans with further development this summer.

It’s easy to forget that Smith was the all-time rushing leader for the Gophers before arriving at the next level. He may have gone undrafted, but his awareness at times in 2020 was really pleasing and something the player can definitely build on.

Those sitting behind McCaffrey on the depth chart need to be ready in case the All-Pro misses any more time through injury. It would also serve the Carolina Panthers well to take some of the load off their face of the franchise to maximize his production, so an opportunity could be awaiting someone like Smith providing he shows enough in the preseason.

It’s easy to pre-judge for good or bad before players get the chance to put on the pads and really get down to business. But this is an encouraging start from Smith.