Steve Smith no longer a Carolina Panther? Wide Receiver tweets fans--"I love you panthernation" ( see fans reaction )
It's a sad day for Carolina Panther fans. Steve Smith announced that he was no longer a panther Wednesday, March 12.
I will always be a Carolina panther No contract can ever change that CLT is my home and will always be my home... I love you #panthernation
— Steve Smith (@89SteveSmith) March 12, 2014
But I still have a lil bit of football left in me.... #agent89 Out. #iceupson — Steve Smith (@89SteveSmith) March 12, 2014
The wide receiver's agent, Derrick Fox confirmed the news to the Associated Press on Wednesday.
"(Smith) is not going to play for the Panthers next year, I know that," Fox said.
It was revealed that the Panthers were trying to trade Smith, but his agent predicts that Smith will ultimately be released. Fox's comments seem to suggest that he is pressuring the Panthers to make a decision soon.
"Where we are disappointed is the fact he signed an extension to stay loyal to the club and complete his career as a Panther," Fox said. "That is why we did the long-term team deal. Now we are at a crossroads where the Panthers don't want him anymore."
This was a surprising move by the Carolina Panthers, but for most, they felt the time was near.
"At 34, they could have kept him and run him in the slot," Fox said. "Steve wants to play in the slot. But he can't play the slot with the current roster, and he hasn't been able to play in the slot with the rosters in the past."
Smith is may not be a Panther anymore, but he will be a player for someone. According to NFL.com the Baltimore Ravens seem to be interested in the wide receiver.
One fan posted to Instagram, "Can't believe this guy isn't gonna be a Panther anymore. My all time favorite panther. The guy has done so much for the panther franchise it sucks to see him go like this and not retire in a panther jersey. Thank you for all the great memories and the dedication to the team. Whatever team hes on I'm gonna root for. #89 #PantherforLife #SteveSmith @aceandsmitty"
"Thanks for all the good memories. You will always be a Panther in my book!#89#stevesmith#Legend"
"I can't believe Steve Smith won't be on the Panthers team next year. It has been a good and long run and he can never be replaced. Steve smith will always be in the heart and memories of Panther fans everywhere... #irreplaceable #stevesmith #panthers #willbemissed #heart #iceupson"