Panthers Greats Cam Newton and Steve Smith Sr. Reunite for Candid Conversation

The former teammates open up about their past differences and mental health struggles.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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After nearly a decade of keeping their distance, former Carolina Panthers stars Cam Newton and Steve Smith Sr. recently sat down for a deep and honest conversation, addressing their past misunderstandings and the challenges of maintaining mental health in the public eye. The two Panthers legends, who played together from 2011 to 2013, had not crossed paths since Smith's departure from the team in 2014 to join the Baltimore Ravens for the final three seasons of his NFL career.

Why it matters

The reunion of these two iconic Panthers players is significant, as it represents a healing of the rift that had developed between them in recent years. Their candid discussion sheds light on the difficulties professional athletes can face in navigating personal relationships and mental health, even after their playing days are over.

The details

In the conversation, which was posted on both Newton's and Smith's YouTube channels, the former teammates discussed their past tensions and the need to maintain mental health. Newton had previously described their 2011 Panthers team as a "locker room of losers," a characterization that Smith took issue with at the time. However, the two have now reconciled, with Newton clarifying that he was not specifically referring to Smith in those comments.

  • Cam Newton and Steve Smith Sr. played together on the Carolina Panthers from 2011 to 2013.
  • Steve Smith Sr. was released by the Panthers ahead of the 2014 season and played his final three NFL seasons with the Baltimore Ravens.
  • In February 2026, Newton and Smith sat down for a deep conversation that was posted on their respective YouTube channels.

The players

Cam Newton

The former starting quarterback for the Carolina Panthers, who is considered one of the franchise's all-time greats.

Steve Smith Sr.

The former wide receiver for the Carolina Panthers, who is the franchise's all-time leading receiver.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

This reunion between Cam Newton and Steve Smith Sr. serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of maintaining mental health and working through personal differences, even for high-profile professional athletes. Their candid conversation highlights the challenges they have faced and the need for greater understanding and support within the sports community.