5 key observations from the Panthers preseason win vs. Steelers
By Dean Jones
Injury concern for Shi Smith
If there was one negative to come from Friday’s game, it would be a concerning injury to Shi Smith. The wide receiver fell to the ground after his second reception of the contest, which saw him leave the field and get treatment for what is reportedly a shoulder problem that needs further investigation.
Head coach Matt Rhule stated after the win that he wasn’t too sure as to the severity of Smith’s injury. But cautiously called it “significant” when speaking to reporters.
Smith has been a real star throughout the offseason after the Carolina Panthers selected him in the sixth round of the 2021 NFL Draft.
Matt Rhule unsure of the severity of Shi Smith’s injury. pic.twitter.com/8D6pekEI1t
— John Ellis (@1PantherPlace) August 28, 2021
His playmaking ability and fearless approach to every down made him a big hit with fans and players alike. So if the South Carolina product is forced to miss an extended period of time, it would be a body blow.
It did appear that Smith was carving out a role for himself.
There is an exceptional amount of receiving talent for Carolina to utilize in 2021. But they’ll miss someone that might have been a surprise opposing teams didn’t see coming.
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We should know in the next couple of days just how bad things are for Smith. Judging by all accounts immediately after the game, everyone should hope for the best and expect the worst.