4 Panthers players who surprised in preseason win at Commanders

Shi Smith – Carolina Panthers WR

When Baker Mayfield needed to keep his drive alive on the first series of the game, he looked to second-year wide receiver Shi Smith. The Carolina Panthers badly need one of last year’s rookie pass-catchers to step up in 2022 and the former sixth-round selection certainly made a great impression on the first drive, catching two passes for 34 receiving yards on the team’s first drive.

Smith needed a big camp and preseason to be able to earn a contributing role with Robbie Anderson and D.J. Moore as the primary targets. The third job appears to be up for grabs with Terrace Marshall Jr., Smith, and Rashard Higgins all competing for time.

However, the South Carolina product made his case by helping to bail Mayfield out of pressure and making a play twice on the drive. His ability to get open quickly also caught the eye during his time on the field.

Smith is a player that has the potential to help the Carolina offense take that elusive step forward. His ability after the catch could bring some much-needed electricity and help take some pressure off D.J. Moore

There is a lot of hard work ahead for Smith, but he is a player that fans should continue to watch closely throughout the preseason.