Carolina Panthers sign WR Steve Smith on new three-year deal - NFL News
Carolina Panthers gave 32-year-old wide receiver Steve Smith a new three-year contract extension that will keep him at the franchise till 2015.
The new contract signed on Tuesday will pay Smith a guaranteed $ 18 million and also includes an option to extend the contract to 2016.
Smith was ecstatic at his new deal and said that it fulfils a promise he made to general manager, Marty Hurney in 2001 when he first came to the franchise.
"I told Marty I would be the best Panther player ever to put on a uniform,"
Adding further the wide receiver said.
"The coaches and players in this organization make it real easy to re-sign here. It's been very enjoyable. It's a great opportunity to build a stronger foundation to what we're already building."
The wide receiver also took the opportunity to slam his critics who believe he is too old to provide a significant contribution to the franchise.
"People will pretty much say he's old and he's come out of the garbage. Well, so be it. Another man's trash is another man's treasure. Obviously, I'm a treasure here and I appreciate the opportunity to move forward for however long I'm healthy and able to
perform. When I have to walk away, I will walk away."
Smith also praised Panthers quarterback, Cam Newton, and said that he was a special talent for coming right into the mix from the start and praised how he has handled the pressure of being the face of the Panthers.
Hurney also spoke to the media and the general manager praised Smith’s performances while also lauded his work ethic and competitiveness.
The wide receiver had a brilliant season in 2011-12 as he combined well with rookie quarterback Cam Newton who Carolina had brought in their first pick in last year’s drafts.
Smith made 79 receptions for a gain of 1,394 yards and scored seven touchdowns as helped Carolina bounce back from being a league punching bag and into a team that can genuinely challenge their opponents.
On the back of last season’s performance Smith was voted into the Pro-Bowl along with Newton.
The Panthers this year are looking to better last season’s 6-10 record and challenge their rivals for a playoff berth.
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