Rodney Smith Fantasy Stats

Carolina Panthers running back Rodney Smith was elevated from the practice squad on Saturday. His addition to the 53-man roster suggests that Christian McCaffrey (hamstring, doubtful) will be unable to play against the Eagles on Sunday afternoon. Assuming this is the case, Chuba Hubbard would serve as the Panthers' lead back and fall into the low-end RB2 range amidst a favorable matchup against Philadelphia. Smith and Royce Freeman would fill depth roles behind the rookie. While neither Smith nor Freeman have exceptional workloads, the former represents an intriguing case in deeper PPR leagues after catching all five of his targets for 48 yards last week.

Carolina Panthers running back Rodney Smith (knee) was waived by the team Tuesday. Smith practiced for the first time in a couple of weeks, as he was sidelined due to a knee injury, though he was one of the final roster cuts the team made to get down to 53. The 25-year-old back was competing for the backup role behind Christian McCaffrey, but that spot will go to talented rookie Chuba Hubbard. Smith could end up as someone who makes the practice squad, as Carolina currently has just two backs on the 53-man roster. He totaled 156 rushing yards and 59 receiving yards in seven games played in 2020.

Carolina Panthers running back Rodney Smith finished with 10 carries for 40 yards and a score along with one reception for four yards on one target in the Week 17 loss to the Saints. Smith was simply filling in as the lead back for this contest due to Christian McCaffrey (thigh) and Mike Davis (ankle) being held out with injuries. As a result, Smith has no fantasy relevance heading into 2021 as Christian McCaffrey is slated to reclaim the workhorse role for Carolina beginning next season.

Carolina Panthers running back Rodney Smith is not a starting-caliber option this week. With Mike Davis unlikely to play due to an ankle injury and Christian McCaffrey also unlikely to suit up due to a thigh injury, the Panthers may have to lean on Smith and Trenton Cannon to lead the backfield. Smith had seven carries for 23 yards last week but it's important to note the Saints allow the fewest points to fantasy backs. Therefore, no Carolina back is worth starting in fantasy this week.