I've got to say though...

[frash.exe]

When we were talking about which player was the premier icon, i guess a year or two ago this poll was posted, the most valuable player for the Panthers, it was between Steve Smith and Julius Peppers. A lot of people voted for either, I voted for Smith, and people said Julius was more important.

Well, fast forward, Smitty signs a contract extension to keep him here, and Peppers wants to take his ball and go elsewhere. And A LOT of that was based on Smitty's character compared to Peppers. Many thought Peppers was the one who would stay a career Panther, but I guess that's not going to happen.

Turns out, at least IMO, Smitty's character is what compelled him to stay here. He is passionate about what he believes in, and for every one time he puts you down, he will pick you up 1000 times. As much as we all bashed Delhomme for his performance (5 interceptions, 1 fumble, yes our grumblings are justified BTW) he was right there to pick Delhomme back up when he was in a bad spot on the sideline, telling him he's his guy no matter what. That's a teammate, and I'd rather have 22 starters who have the same mindset as Smith than 22 starters who have the same mindset as Peppers.

So let me take this chance to honor my favorite all-time Panther, Smitty.

[Baschski]

Good post. Smitty is my hero. As long as guys like him are playing, the Panthers are going to be competitive.

[Kevin Greene]

Smitty FTW.

[PanthersFanNY]

Steve Smith is a great man, I'm proud that he is a Panther.

[goodlay]

Future HOF member I hope.

[Mardagg]

I'm just glad we got the extension with Smitty when we did.

Love the heart of 89!