ADD:

This new NFL video gives a deeper explanation of Steve’s new effort (see below).

The photo below is just another bit of evidence supporting what I’ve thought all along: That Steve Smith is one of the hardest-playing, toughest dudes in the league. He might even be the best Ute to ever play in the NFL.

What do you readers think? Is there another Utah player who’s had a better career playing on Sundays? Check his career stats here.

Panthers wide receiver Steve Smith stiff-arms New York Giants safety Antrel Rolle (26) during the fourth quarter of their loss to the Giants, Thursday night, September 20, 2012.

(AP Photo/Bob Leverone)

Panthers WR Steve Smith #89 … 4 catches for 86 yards in the Thursday night spanking from the Giants.

Steve Smith is involved with a program called Samaritan’s Feet. The Charlotte-based organization says that 300 million children lack shoes. Apparently, here he is talking with Giants’ WR Victor Cruz who has also removed his shoes. Check out the story explaining his effort here.

Here is an excerpt from the story:

“What it really came from is, you know, just kind of reflecting,” says Smith, 33. “What’s my imprint, what do I want to leave? For a long time I really played this game selfishly for my own personal gains. And I really haven’t really done anything I feel outside of statistics that is substantial.”

He first worked with Samaritan’s Feet in New Orleans last spring during the NCAA men’s Final Four.

“So it was like, hey, I want to do the same thing during the season where I play,” says Smith. “So in Tampa we have an opportunity to give out 400 pair of shoes – Under Armour’s helping – and we’re going to wash their feet, pray for them. Just give them our time and give them our attention.”

Smith will do this in every city the Panthers play this season, including Charlotte. Because of time and travel constraints he won’t personally be involved in each city. But he expects to participate in five.

After this past Sunday’s game against Tampa Bay at Raymond James Stadium, Smith removed his shoes and walked barefoot to the locker room.

WR Steve Smith, left, laughs with Thursday Night Football host Deion Sanders before the Panthers met the New York Giants for an NFL football game in Charlotte, N.C., Thursday, Sept. 20, 2012.

(AP Photo/Bob Leverone)