Panthers' Short not taking $80M deal for granted: 'I've still got to work'
Carolina Panthers defensive tackle Kawann Short promises he won't become complacent after receiving a five-year, $80-million contract in April.
Short was selected by the Panthers in the second round of the 2013 NFL Draft, and quickly developed into one of the NFL's preeminent defensive tackles, earning Pro Bowl honors in 2015.
Despite signing a lucrative new deal, he isn't planning on taking any shortcuts.
"I've still got to work like I'm still trying to earn one," Short told ESPN's Bob Pockrass. "I come out here every day. That's in the past now. I'm working like it's another rookie year for me.
"It's the same mentality (in camp) - to do what I've been doing and go at the offensive line and make each other get better."
With his new contract finally inked, Short said he can place his singular focus on leading the Panthers back to the playoffs, after they missed out last year.
"I don't have to worry about what's next or what's that. I've just got to worry about coming out here and doing what I've been doing."