Ito Smith
If the Carolina Panthers are looking for a running back that can also provide assistance catching out of the backfield, then Ito Smith is an intriguing name sitting on the market. The veteran possesses some nice explosiveness and is a consistent pass-catcher, but he’s seen no action this season after failing to make the Minnesota Vikings‘ 53-man roster during training camp.
Smith has been a solid if not spectacular during his career so far. The former fourth-round pick is no stranger to the Panthers having played for the Atlanta Falcons before his release.
The Southern Mississippi product might be on the small size compared to other backs across the league. But based on Smith’s previous production, he is elusive in tight windows and can stretch the field if given the opportunity.
As is the case with most veterans who’ve had little in the way of real football activity, Smith would need to prove his fitness and pick things up quickly. Although anyone coming into the Panthers would probably be for practice squad purposes if they call up Reggie Bonnafon or Spencer Brown in Christian McCaffrey’s absence.
Smith has the talent, there’s no getting away from that. But the NFL seldom waits around once the next batch of exciting running backs come out from the college ranks every spring.