The Facts:
HC Ron Rivera said one of the traits that has fueled Smith’s success – his intensity – can add wear and tear to his body over the years. Smith is almost always the last player to walk on to the practice fields. But once there, he doesn’t do anything half-speed. As a result, Rivera has taken to giving Smith occasional days off, and he plans to do more of it. “I think we have to be smart with Steve," Rivera said. "Make sure we put him in position to take advantage of his abilities and maximize his time and not waste his time or his reps. So he’s getting quality reps and quality plays.”
Reported by the Charlotte Observer
Fantasy Football Diehards Line:
Smith will turn 34 in May, but the Pro Bowl wide receiver and the Panthers’ longest-tenured player has shown few signs of slowing down. He can still run past and out-muscle defensive backs, spar with them before and after the whistle, and get feisty with reporters when describing the action afterward. Smith has indicated he plans to play a couple more seasons and call it a career. But Rivera's approach is clearly a wise one. “The thing about Steve I’ll always be impressed with is how hard he does everything. Not just on the football field. Everything he does, he gives 100 percent,” Rivera said. “He really does put his all into it. I think that’s why he’s been able to sustain it for such a long time."
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