A few months back, the Carolina Panthers saw one of their legends claim his rightful spot in Canton, Ohio. And now, they’re a step closer to seeing it happen for another franchise great.
On Tuesday, Steve Smith Sr. was named one of 28 modern-era semifinalists for the Pro Football Hall of Fame’s 2023 class. This is now the second consecutive year the former wideout has been selected to the illustrious group.
Smith Sr. played 13 of his 16 professional seasons in Carolina, where he still stands as the organization’s all-time leading receiver. As a Panther, he amassed 12,197 yards and 67 touchdowns off 836 receptions.
After parting ways with the team following the 2013 campaign, Smith Sr. finished out the final three years of his NFL career with the Baltimore Ravens—adding 2,534 more yards, 14 more scores and 195 more catches. He is currently the eighth leading receiver (14,731 yards) in NFL history.
The 43-year-old will now see if he squeezes in as one of 15 finalists, which will be announced in early January.
