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It's been a struggle for Christian McCaffrey and the Carolina Panthers over the past two seasons, as he's only been able to play in 6 games during that time span. However, it seems like he might be able to return to action in Week 9 against a stingy New England Patriots defense, according to coach Matt Rhule. Here's what Rhule had to say on CMC's availability.
āHopefully we get Christian back soon.Ā Hopefully, itās this week. If not this week, then next week,ā Carolina head coach Matt Rhule said in his Monday press conference. āObviously, heās one of the best players in football. He brings something.ā
Even a return this week would be much later than originally expected for McCaffrey, as the Panthers even hesitated putting him on injured reserve after he originally went down. He began putting in practice reps a few weeks ago, which signaled a possible return in the Week 6-7 range, but that never came to fruition.
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As for that āsomethingā that CMC brings, the Panthers were 3-0 in the games that McCaffrey started this year. In the games since, they've gone 1-4. Evidently, Carolina's success hinges on whether or not he can stay on the field. Rhule believes that his work ethic will make that return to the field sooner rather than later, though, as he had this to say as well.
āYeah, heāll practice Wednesday, Iām hoping,ā Rhule said. āIf he practices on Wednesday and does well, then weāll see how he is on Thursday and just kind of ramp him up toward the game. He hasnāt practiced yet, so thereās always a return-to-play component to it. But no one works harder than Christian McCaffrey. When he comes back, heāll be in shape and ready to go. So hopefully we have him. Weāll know more as the week goes on.ā
Football is simply better when Christian McCaffrey is healthy and torching defenses. Let's all hope he makes a speedy recovery that lasts.
