3 realistic goals for Panthers rookie WR Shi Smith in 2021

Shi Smith will finish the season with 450 all-purpose yards

While this number might seem low at first glance it is a respectable goal considering where Shi Smith is on the depth chart and who is in front of him. Robby Anderson and D.J. Moore will certainly demand the football and the rookie will be fighting the remaining wideouts for playing time.

However, finishing the season with 450 all-purpose yards is a realistic goal Smith is going to reach.

Similar to Scotty Miller of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Smith is going to be a big role player for the Carolina Panthers this season, providing a speedy outlet the opposing defense won’t be coming compared to other prominent offensive weapons.

While I have long argued the pre-season is meaningless, Smith is one exception. A player Carolina’s loyal fanbase needs to keep their eyes on during this year’s warm-up games.

How many reps does he receive?

Does he appear overmatched or hesitant as he did at times in his junior season?

We will quickly know whether or not Smith belongs and whether he can emerge as an impact player during his rookie season with the organization.

Aside from Smith, the Panthers have a bevy of position player talent coming into one of the most anticipated seasons in recent memory. A season that should see Carolina improve and the sixth-rounder prove himself as a legitimate contributor.