Chau Smith-Wade: Everything you need to know

Smith-Wade tallied 56 tackles (43 solo), an interception and two passes defender across 16 regular-season games during the 2025 campaign. Smith-Wade saw increased playing time on defense during his second season, and he ended up recording a career-high 56 tackles while serving as the Panthers' starting slot cornerback. The 23-year-old also managed to score his first NFL touchdown, as he ran back a Michael Penix interception for six points during their Week 3 win over the Falcons.

Smith-Wade (chest) is active for Sunday's game against the Cowboys, Darin Gantt of the Panthers' official site reports. Smith-Wade was unable to play against the Dolphins in Week 5 due to a chest injury, but he's been given the green light to play Sunday after logging full practices all week. The 2024 fifth-rounder has accumulated 10 tackles (nine solo) and a pick-six across four regular-season games.

Smith-Wade (chest) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Cowboys. Smith-Wade seems more likely than not to play after logging three full practices, but he's still listed on the injury report. The nickel cornerback sat out Carolina's Week 5 win over the Dolphins due to a chest injury.