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Chau Smith-Wade’s dwindling Panthers role reveals where he now stands

Third-year cornerback Chau Smith-Wade's dwindling Carolina Panthers role reveals where he now stands in the pecking order.

By Dean Jones · Cat Crave

Published: Monday, 19 October 2026 at 2:00 PM

Key Things to Know

Dean Jones argues Chau Smith-Wade has fallen out of favor after playing two defensive snaps against Philadelphia.
Carolina turned to rookie Will Lee III and Akayleb Evans despite injuries to Jaycee Horn and Mike Jackson Sr.
Smith-Wade's defensive snap rate has fallen from 63 percent in 2025 to 14 percent this season.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Writer Dean Jones argues that Carolina Panthers cornerback Chau Smith-Wade has fallen down the depth chart after playing just two defensive snaps against the Philadelphia Eagles. Despite injuries sidelining starting cornerbacks Jaycee Horn and Mike Jackson Sr., defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero relied on rookie Will Lee III, Akayleb Evans, safety Tre'von Moehrig, and rookie Zakee Wheatley instead of turning to Smith-Wade.

According to Jones, Smith-Wade's defensive snaps have declined to 14 percent this season compared to 63 percent in 2025. The writer concludes that the coaching staff appears to view the third-year corner primarily as a special-teams contributor and emergency option.

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Chau Smith-Wade’s dwindling Panthers role reveals where he now stands

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