Panthers WR Shi Smith arrested for alleged unlawful carrying of a handgun, drug possession

Carolina Panthers general manager Scott Fitterer spent a portion of his Friday discussing the franchise's quarterback situation but then found the team in headlines for a much different reason later in the evening. 

Per David Newton of ESPN and Charean Williams of Pro Football Talk, Carolina wide receiver Shi Smith was arrested Friday in his hometown of Union County, South Carolina, for unlawful carrying of a handgun and possession with intent to distribute marijuana. He's also been charged with speeding 16-to-24 mph over the legal limit. 

"This is a pending legal matter and there will be no further comment at this time," the Panthers said in a statement shared by PFT.  

Smith was released on a $5,000 bond for the narcotic charge and an additional $1,000 bond for the gun-related charge. The 23-year-old has a court date set for June 14, which is scheduled to be the second day of Carolina's four-day minicamp.

A 2021 rookie, Smith entered the NFL when the Panthers drafted him in the sixth round and at pick No. 204 last spring. In total, he tallied six receptions for 104 yards across six games and also contributed on special teams during his debut pro season. 

He played his college ball for the South Carolina Gamecocks.