4 Carolina Panthers players who have raised their stock this summer
By Dean Jones
Shi Smith – Carolina Panthers WR
Getting noticed in a crowded wide receiver room was a difficult ask for Shi Smith heading into the preparation period. The former sixth-round selection became a bit-part player as a rookie and an offseason arrest only cast further doubt on his future aspirations with the franchise.
Smith took a little time to find his feet. But the Carolina Panthers cannot ignore the incredible turnaround in fortunes accomplished by the wide receiver in recent weeks.
The South Carolina product has gone from bubble candidate to potentially being the team’s No. 3 receiving option in double-quick time. Smith’s displayed tremendous heart to fight back from adversity, coming up with significant plays in camp and during the preseason to further enhance his status.
This isn’t possible without some self-reflection. Smith also sought the counsel of former Panthers wide receiver Steve Smith, who has clearly helped the second-year player finally start realizing his potential.
Smith deservedly made the team after the Panthers confirmed their final roster cuts on Tuesday. There is still much work ahead for the wideout in pursuit of prominent targets, but considering how bleak his prospects looked once upon a time, this is better than anyone anticipated.