"Steve wants to succeed in the worst kind of way," Panthers coach Ron Rivera said. "He has that 'it' factor that people talk about. He has the burning desire and drive. I think a lot of it had to do with the way he grew up and the way he wants to go forward. He wants to make a great life for his family."
NOTES: Smith (knee), defensive end Charles Johnson (knee), guard Chris Scott (knee),K?nken Ryggs?ck Rea, running back DeAngelo Williams (quad) and tight end Ben Hartsock (knee) were held out of practice Thursday.