Robinson Shakes Up Panthers Depth Chart

The only thing we know for sure about the Carolina Panthers' receiving corps this season is that Steve Smith is the top dog. Everything else is in flux. Drew Carter is reportedly moving down the depth chart, while Keary Colbert is moving up, and Dwayne Jarrett remains the favorite to win the #2 spot, despite his current hamstring woes.

The receiver that's creating the most stir in camp, though, is Ryne Robinson, the 4th-round pick out of Miami of Ohio who was brought in as a punt return specialist but is suddenly drawing comparisons to Steve Smith. Robinson's not lacking in confidence, either. When asked about his goals this year, he replied:

"Definitely at least two or three punt returns for touchdowns; hopefully some kickoffs for touchdowns, too. ... We're going to progress toward being one of the top teams in the NFL at the return game."

Big talk, considering the Panthers were the worst in the NFL at the return game in 2006. He also has no intention of being just a return man.

"I think I'll play a little more receiver than anyone expects right off. ... I'm not settling with (returning), just like you know that Steve Smith wouldn't settle with that. I have the same mentality."

Robinson is also an inch shorter (5-8) than Smith (5-9), which means it's only a matter of time before someone starts calling the Panthers' receiving corps "The New Smurfs." Still, if Robinson shows the same speed and talent as Smith, he could have a very successful time in Charlotte. Maybe he, too, will one day be a pitchman for fried chicken he'll never eat.