WR Steve Smith, CAR

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2009 Outlook: Stud (low risk)

At 5''9" Steve Smith lacks the size of most elite fantasy wide receivers, but none can match his body control on deep balls or elusiveness after the catch in the open field, making Smith the NFL's most dynamic playmaking wide receiver. With Jake Delhomme healthy for all of last season, Smith turned in a respectable fantasy season catching 78 passes for 1,421 yards and 6 TD's. Fantasy owners should be reminded that Smith missed the first two games of the 2008 season due to a team issued suspension.

Steve Smith remains in the elite class of fantasy wide receivers, and always seems to be at his best when the spotlight is shining brightest. Smith has been (and always will be) Jake Delhomme's go-to wide out, and his unique playmaking ability (that allows him to have several monster fantasy weeks alone) makes him worth drafting as a #1 fantasy wide out. Jake Delhomme did not play well in 2008, and if he improves his poor play at all in 2009 then Steve Smith will have an excellent fantasy season. Fantasy owners can count on Smith to catch 90 passes for 1,400 yards and 10 TD's in 2009.

Update 8/21

Smith has been out with a shoulder injury for much of the pre-season, but has returned to practice this week. Smith has been held out of contact, but it appears likely that he will be ready to start Week 1. Smith's shoulder injury may drop his draft day value, which could lead to a great buy low for fantasy owners.

Average Draft Position

2009 Mock Draft Results