Another Apology from Steve Smith

This was supposed to be the year that Carolina Panthers wide receiver Steve Smith really stepped up and accepted his role as a veteran and a leader. We have all noticed his change in attitude, and it seemed as though he was really beginning to mature as both a player and an individual. However, after breaking his arm in a game of flag football, fans cannot help but wonder if Smith is back to his old tricks.

Now that the Panthers completely purged their former offensive line and Smith's close friend Muhsin Muhammad has retired, there is no one else for him to rely on as he has in the past, and for the first time in his career, Steve Smith is his team's unquestioned leader. Smith was aware that he would have some changes to adapt to, and in appearing at the Panthers first mini-camp, he seemed cool, collective, and ready to rack up another 982 yards. Ultimately, he stated, "I still have to go out there and play football. My job and my requirements don't change because they change a few positions."

Now, the 31-year old will need to be sidelined for the first several weeks of camp as the result of a broken arm sustained during his playing in YMCA adult flag football game. Apparently, he was laying the Heisman on another player when he felt sharp and severe pain in his left forearm. Following the revealing X-ray, Smith underwent an operation to have a small plate and screws inserted in his arm.

Fortunately, this injury has not aggravated the wrist that he broke last season. Physicians are expecting a full recovery and coaches are banking on the fact that Smith will come back stronger than ever and really accept his role as a team leader.

Sources:

http://www.nfl.com/news/story?id=09000d5d817ec1c3&template=with-video-with-comments&confirm=true

http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/seahawks/2012175223_nfl22.html