Carolina Panthers legend and soon-to-be Pro Football Hall of Famer Sam Mills has touched so many lives—even the ones that are a bit rough around the edges.
That includes fellow franchise great Steve Smith Sr., who took a few minutes to speak on Mills’ long overdue election to Canton on Friday’s NFL Total Access. But, as you’ll see, the impact Mills had on those around him resulted in Smith not only talking about him from the standpoint of an analyst, but also from the standpoint of a friend.
My dude Steve Smith is The Realist. I love this man. Hearing him talk about his former friend and new Hall of Famer Sam Mills is everything. Please take a few moments pic.twitter.com/ZLto040E9X
— Steve Wyche (@wyche89) February 12, 2022
Smith, who was drafted by the Panthers in 2001, began his career with the organization while Mills was serving as the team’s linebackers coach. For four seasons, the wideout was lucky enough to experience the inspirational man and story behind the legacy of No. 51.
His experience included Carolina’s run to Super Bowl XXXVIII, where Mills delivered his famous “Keep Pounding” speech prior to the Wild Card Round victory over the Dallas Cowboys.
And surely, with just a little more time, Smith will be joining his old pal once again with a spot of his own in those hallowed halls of Ohio.
