Even though the NFL season is in the offseason, the spirit of the game is alive and well—thanks to a Panthers legend who's giving back to the next generation.

On Sunday, Steve Smith Sr. and his foundation hosted a youth football skills clinic at Symphony Park, bringing together young athletes eager to sharpen their game. For Smith, these events are about more than just drills and reps.

"It builds equity for us to know when you see us, we’re showing up and we care, and we’re here to help," Smith said. The former wide receiver, known for his fiery competitiveness on the field, is channeling that same energy into community building during the downtime between seasons.

But the impact doesn't stop on the gridiron. Smith's foundation is also teaming up with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department and Mecklenburg County for an upcoming health fair. Families will have access to free vaccinations, blood pressure checks, anxiety screenings, and more—proving that true athletic development includes both physical and mental wellness.

For young players looking to follow in Smith's footsteps, it's a reminder that the game isn't just about what happens on Sundays. It's about building a foundation that lasts long after the final whistle blows.