MUNICH, Germany — There was a split second when it seemed everything was about to go horribly wrong.
Steve Smith, legendary Carolina Panthers receiver and Hall of Honor member, was attempting to drive a rickshaw through the cobblestone streets of Munich while toting another legendary Panther Luke Kuechly, when he careened the cart toward a fruit stand.
Exhibiting the same quickness that made him the Panthers career receiving leader, Smith stopped the rickshaw on a dime, saving himself, Kuechly and any unsuspecting Munich citizens who happened to be in his path. Not to mention all the fruit.
After another split second to confirm everyone was good, Smith’s laughter bounced off the high stone walls and turrets encircling the plaza in downtown Munich.
“He’s OK,” Smith chirped.
It’s all just part of the experience as the Panthers took over Southern Germany for the NFL’s International Series. Smith, Kuechly, Julius Peppers, Thomas Davis and Jon Beason as well as owners Dave and Nicole Tepper and team president Kristi Coleman helped kick things off on Friday. The group tapped a keg at a local pub, led patrons in a “Keep Pounding” cheer and even recorded a podcast live from another local plaza.
A packed house welcomed the legends to Augustiner Stammhaus, creating an impromptu pep rally. Peppers, Smith and Kuechly stopped every few feet as local Munich fans and those who traveled from afar donning their jerseys asked for pictures, shared favorite memories and attempted to (unsuccessfully) teach German phrases.
Simply having the group together called for swapping stories, like when Beason reminded Peppers what it was like zip-lining in the jungle or falling back into rememberances that will stand the test of time, such as Kuechly and Davis trading punches like two brothers back in their mom’s living room.
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