AP reports a fracas on the Carolina Panthers practice field involving WR Steve Smith and CB Ken Lucas resulting in Smith dealing Lucas a black eye. It could have been worse for the abused corner – unlike the Bears’ Charles Tillman in the Panthers ’06 playoff win, Lucas was at least left standing in Smith’s wake.
The melee came while most starters were on the sidelines during a special teams drill at training camp. It was unclear what provoked the fight. Several players and coach John Fox rushed to both players. Fox tried to separate the two, but it took linebacker Jon Beason to pull Smith off Lucas.
Lucas walked to a tent, holding his head while accompanied by a trainer. Smith was then escorted there by receiver Muhsin Muhammad to talk to Lucas. After being treated for several minutes, the Panthers’ starting cornerback walked onto a cart and was taken to the locker room. There was no immediate update on the extent of his injuries.
Smith was kicked out of practice and spent several minutes talking to kicker John Kasay on an adjacent field. He later walked into the locker room while practice continued.
Fox said it hasn’t been determined if Smith will be suspended .
Early reports indicate the Chicago White Sox were not involved.