2009 Fantasy Football Player Profile-Steve Smith

WR Steve Smith, Carolina Panthers

2008 Stats: 78 receptions, 1421 receiving yards,  6 TDs
Projected 2009 Stats:  81 receptions, 1177 receiving yards,  7 TDs
Projected Fantasy Round: 3rd Round
Wide Receivers to be picked ahead of Steve Smith: Reggie Wayne,  Terrell Owens, Randy Moss, etc.

Fantasy Outlook:

Why you should draft Steve Smith: Over the last four seasons, Smith has averaged 87 receptions, 1288 receiving yards, and eight touchdowns.   Last season, Smith reached triple figures in yardage in eight games as well as hauling in at least five receptions in ten contests. 

Why you may want to stay away from drafting Steve Smith: In 2008, Smith was twice held under 50 receiving yards, and he failed to score in nine of the 14 games that he played.  Since 2004, Smith has missed 20 games, which makes him a risky fantasy pick. 

Bottom Line: Smith is very productive, when healthy.  However, he cannot be counted on to appear in all 16 games.  With that being said, he is still an upper tier fantasy wide receiver.