Panthers preparing Brandon Smith in multiple roles 

Smith said he has worked to build upon the vocal energy he has taken in from teammates such as Thompson, Damien Wilson, and Frankie Luvu, and it’s already translated into elevated confidence ahead of his first game week as a Panther.

“When we’re on the field, I’m gaining more and more confidence within myself,” Smith said. “(I’m) not becoming a vet, but I’m talking more like a vet. … That’s something I’m working toward, and I feel like personally, I’m doing everything I can do to build toward that.”