Steve Smith Has Sprained PCL, Will Likely Miss Week 17 Matchup With Falcons

Hey, Steve Smith, “Ice up, son!”

Smith sprained his PCL during the Panthers’ Week 16 win over the Saints, and is highly doubtful for Sunday’s matchup against the Falcons, according to the team’s Twitter account. He suffered the knee injury after making just one catch for 44 yards, going down on a non-contact play.

Carolina is finding a silver lining, though, since it’s possible Smith could return for the playoffs.

“It was very good news considering the alternative,” Panthers coach Ron Rivera said via CBSSports.com. “Where he sprained it and how lack of severity there was, that was all positive news. It really was. And I’m excited and very happy with Steve.”

Smith is being evaluated on a week to week basis, and the Panthers have a chance to earn a first-round bye in the team’s matchup with Atlanta. Carolina is headed to the playoffs with a win or a loss, but the extra time would be beneficial to give Smith more time to rehab before the postseason.