Shi Smith – Carolina Panthers WR
One notable element that’s constantly been evident throughout training camp is the competition for places within the wide receiver room. The Carolina Panthers have some tough choices to make behind their top trio of D.J. Moore, Robbie Anderson, and Terrace Marshall Jr., so evaluating production in the preseason will ultimately determine which options make it through.
Shi Smith has certainly flashed at times during drills. But he isn’t alone in that regard and the former South Carolina standout needs to make his presence felt when targets come his way before the final cuts come to fruition.
It was a frustrating first year overall for Smith, who was seldom used despite a lack of consistency from the team’s pass-catchers. An offseason arrest cast further doubt on his long-term prospects, although he’s been fully focused during camp and made some impressive plays along the way.
Much will depend on how many wideouts the Panthers take onto the team. One expects Rashard Higgins to make it given his previous chemistry with quarterback Baker Mayfield, leaving Smith fighting it out with the likes of Brandon Zylstra, C.J. Saunders, Keith Kirkwood, Derek Wright, and Charleston Rambo for the other spots.
Smith has the talent to separate himself from the aforementioned names. But there is also no margin for error, either.