Delhomme: Smith won't be less of a player

Quarterback Jake Delhomme doesn't think Steve Smith will lose any on-the-field competitiveness as he works on keeping his anger more under control.

Smith is expected to receive counseling in the aftermath of punching teammate Ken Lucas in practice last Friday.

But Delhomme said today he doesn't expect Smith to soften so much that it alters his game.

"When Steve came out of his mom, he had that edge," said Delhomme. "I truly believe that. Guys feed off of Steve when Steve plays -- offensive, defensively, everybody feeds off of Steve.

"I know when the lights come on, he’s still going to be the same Steve. To me, that’s innate. You have it or you don’t have it. I truly believe somebody can’t work to get that way. You want it or you don’t want it. It’s plain and simple. … And Steve knows the type of effect he has on the football team."

Delhomme said he's very pleased with how the Panthers have responded to the incident. Coach John Fox suspended Smith for the first two regular-season games. Smith apologized and Lucas said he forgave him.

"It’s been fantastic," said Delhomme. "That was a rough deal. Everybody knows that.

"I really and truly believe we’ve got the right guys in the right areas on this team to get everything out in the open. Guys talked, and Steve knew he did wrong. But I think the biggest thing of all of it (was) . for Ken Lucas to get up here (and say he’d forgiven Smith) and other guys feeling how he felt.

"Things are going smooth. Those times can make or break a team. ... Guys are still working, still battling. That’s a great sign. It really and truly is."

-- Charles Chandler