5 underrated Carolina Panthers players to watch at 2021 training camp

Shi Smith – Carolina Panthers WR

Shi Smith out of South Carolina was chosen No. 204 overall in the 2021 NFL Draft. Another Reese’s Senior Bowl standout.

Smith was making plays day in and day out in front of Carolina Panthers wide receiver coach Frisman Jackson and head coach Matt Rhule. Which obviously didn’t go unnoticed when it was time to pick their next batch of college players.

The first time Rhule saw Smith at the Senior Bowl, he was fond of him.

Smith brings a lot to the table as a wide receiver. He can play the slot, on the outside, as well as having some speed and sneaky jump-ball ability.

He racked up 174 receptions with 2,204 yards and 13 touchdowns during his career with the Gamecocks. The local product did many different things on offense and plans to continue this with the Panthers moving forward.

After he was selected, it didn’t take Smith long to make a statement at rookie minicamp.

A great comparison for his play is former Panther Curtis Samuel. Smith can be a gadget guy that can line up almost anywhere and he will produce.

Smith will shine in training camp and have many looking his way.