Carolina Panthers running back Christian McCaffrey has made it clear that he is ready for a workhorse role in the 2018 NFL season. It appears head coach Ron Rivera shares that same sentiment.

McCaffrey did not get much a chance to show his prowess as a runner. However, according to Steve Reed of the Associated Press, Rivera indicated that will change this season:

Panthers coach Ron Rivera said getting Christian McCaffrey the ball 25-30 times per game would be “ideal.”

McCaffrey largely served as a complementary option in the run game behind running back Jonathan Stewart. As a result, he finished the 2017 campaign with just 117 carries for 435 yards and two touchdowns. His biggest contributions came through the passing game after hauling in 80 receptions for 651 yards and five touchdowns.

However, Stewart's departure has essentially cleared the way for McCaffrey to take over as the lead back. He certainly looks the part of a workhorse back after bulking up this offseason. While he may be pegged as the early favorite to take over the backfield, the Panthers brought in another viable option in running back C.J. Anderson. Anderson is coming off a 1,000-yard campaign and will undoubtedly do what he can to etch out a role for himself in the offense.

Fortunately, McCaffrey's versatility will allow the coaching staff to find multiple ways to get the ball in his hands. It seems a bit far-fetched to assume that his touches will come purely in the form of carries. McCaffrey's ability to line up almost anywhere on the field should give them the advantage.