August 11th, 2009 
Matt Loede 
Posted in 
The Panthers and their fans held their breath last night as receiver Steve Smith suffered what looked to be at first a pretty serious shoulder injury. The receiver collided with cornerback Chis Gamble during the teams night practice session.
Now though, the receiver says that he is hopeful to be recovered from a right shoulder injury to play in the regular-season opener September 13th. The four-time Pro Bowl pick spoke to reporters earlier Tuesday wearing a sling, the day after the injury.
X-rays were negative, but Smith declined to say if he had a separated shoulder or if he’ll undergo an MRI. He did not give a timetable for his return, but said he was optimistic he’d be ready for the first-game matchup at home vs the Eagles.
With Smith being such a huge part of the Panthers offense, the injury is one that will be carefully watched as the preseason carries on and the regular season gets closer.
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