Heading into his second campaign in the league with the Carolina Panthers, running back Christian McCaffrey has entered a situation where he can become a more valued asset to the offensive game plan.
It has become increasingly evident with his play on the field in the preseason that saw him put together an impressive 71-yard touchdown run against the Miami Dolphins last week. According to David Newton of ESPN, offseason addition C.J. Anderson has taken quick notice of that big-play ability from McCaffrey that he believes the Panthers must emphasize utilizing this upcoming season.
“I was telling people, if it was me, it would be a 50-yard gain,” said the Pro Bowl running back, signed as a free agent out of Denver during the offseason to back up McCaffrey. “With him, he has the ability to finish runs. He's a home run threat. That's what we've got to feed.”
McCaffrey is a uniquely talented player that has displayed the ability to be a major impact factor out of the backfield as both a runner and receiver. He had much of his success in his rookie campaign behind his playmaking ability as a pass catcher last season as he set franchise rookie records in scrimmage yards (1,086) and receptions (80).
This aspect of his role within the offense should remain much of the same, but there is a growing expectation that he will see an increased responsibility in the running game as the Panthers have hinted at him getting north of 200 carries in the 2018 season. He has the speed and big-play ability that should make him a bigger impact player next to Anderson that could give the Panthers one of the most formidable running back duos in the league.
McCaffrey has a bright future ahead of him, which could easily lead to him putting together a breakout year this upcoming season.
Follow Us
Subscribe