For the past few years, Steve Smith has had the burden of the entire Panthers offense on his shoulders. In 2008 however, that looks to change for the better.
No more are Keary Colbert and Drew Carter the guys supposed to help scare opposing defenses. Both were let walk in free agency in the offseason, and the Panthers signed old friend Muhsin Muhammed and newcomer D.J. Hackett to replace them. Muhammed and Smith teamed up in 2002 and 2003 as the Panthers’ starting wideouts and combined for 259 receptions, 3642 yards, and 16 touchdowns as well as 33 catches, 756 yards, and 5 scores in the 2003 postseason. Moose is also a great blocking receiver.
Hackett was signed to a low-risk, 2-year deal in the offseason and will compete with Moose for the second starting receiver gig. After being placed on IR his entire rookie year, Hackett compiled 105 catches for 1394 yards and 9 touchdowns in the three injury-plagued seasons that followed. As of now, Hackett is healthy and looking to show the NFL what he can do.
And with Jonathan Stewart replacing DeFumblin’ Foster in the backfield to pair with DeAngelo Williams, Smitty shouldn’t have to worry about being the entire Panthers offense again. Here’s hoping for a vastly improved Carolina offense in 2008.
No more updates? Really looking forward to this upcoming season. And this thursday when we get a good look at Stewart.