Apparently, it’s possible to play your whole career for the Panthers, break many records, get fired and still have a good relationship with the owner.
Unlike running back DeAngelo Williams, who complained on his way out the door that Jerry Richardson didn’t come to his mother’s funeral, former Panthers wideout Steve Smith has nothing but love for his old boss.
Via Bill Voth of Black and Blue Review, the Ravens wide receiver did an interview last night with WCCB in which he expressed his admiration of Richardson.
“I love Jerry Richardson. Since my grandfather died, he’s been a guy I really lean on as an older father figure,” Smith said. “What I look to Mr. Richardson for is something greater than football. It has to do with everything he’s taught me and the opportunities he’s given me. He’s given me an opportunity here in Charlotte, that my kids will never have to deal with the surroundings that I had to growing up.”
“I owe him everything. He’s given me the opportunity to change my life, my kids’ lives, for generations, and I owe him a debt of gratitude that I can never repay.”
Smith wasn’t firing back at Williams, he was on to promote a charity event he’s doing in Charlotte (the full interview is here). It was actually taped Monday, before another local television station aired the Williams interview, in which he broke his own news about being released.
Smith probably has more room for sour grapes. He was still productive, and actually cost the Panthers more to cut than keep last year. Williams has declined on the field, been hurt and creates cap savings, making it a typical NFL firing.
But their reactions do show how players can perceive the same situation differently, and not let business dealings turn personal on their way out the door.
