Carolina Panthers wide receiver Steve Smith sprained his posterior cruciate ligament in his left knee and isn't expected to play Sunday against the Atlanta Falcons, according to coach Ron Rivera.

Rivera expressed relieft that the injury wasn't more serious after Smith had an MRI today.

Smith might be able to return for the playoffs and Rivera characterized it as "very good news."

The Panthers need to get Smith back on the field to lead the receivers during the postseason.

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Aaron Wilson covers the Ravens for The Baltimore Sun.