The Carolina Panthers were dealt a critical blow with running back Christian McCaffrey suffering a high ankle sprain in Week 3. The team has since taken action to ensure that he is focused on his recovery.
The Panthers have decided to place McCaffrey on injured reserve where he will miss at least the next three games, per NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport:
The #Panthers have placed RB Christian McCaffrey on Injured Reserve with a high-ankle sprain. He’s out the next three games, at least.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 23, 2020
Reports suggest that McCaffrey could be sidelined from four to six weeks due to the injury. Of course, the two-time All-Pro has already made it clear that he is looking to get back in the mix as soon as possible. The earliest he will be eligible to return is in Week 6 when the Panthers host the Chicago Bears at Bank of America Stadium.
The loss of McCaffrey deals a huge blow to the offense given his status as this group's centerpiece. He managed to pick up right where he left off last season by registering 223 yards from scrimmage and four touchdowns through the first two games. Regardless, it is clear that Carolina is hoping to avoid any potential setbacks by giving him ample time to recover from the injury.
With McCaffrey out, the Panthers will now turn to running back Mike Davis to fill the void as a primary option in his absence. running back Trenton Cannon could also see an increased workload taking on a complementary role in the backfield.
Meanwhile, the team has also activated offensive guard Chris Reed from the reserve/COVID list in a corresponding move.
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