Carolina Panthers: Super Bowl free agents to watch
C.J. Anderson, RB – Rams
Carolina had their opportunity with running back C.J. Anderson after signing him last offseason but the two never developed a real working relationship. Offensive coordinator Norv Turner elected to go all-in on Christian McCaffrey and while there isn’t anyone questioning his ability to make an impact, the availability of a bruising running back is never a bad thing.
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The power run game has been prevalent in Carolina for decades and while Turner orchestrates some similar play design, having a back specifically for short yardage or even both on the field at the same time could have potentially created some defensive mismatches.
After being released, Anderson couldn’t find footing with the Oakland Raiders but was eventually picked up by the Rams and is now headed to a Super Bowl for the third time in his six-year career. In four games with Los Angeles, including the playoffs, Anderson has rushed for 466 yards and four touchdowns.
If anyone knows about second chances it’s Hurney, who somehow ended up in the same general manager position he held for years with the Panthers for another tenure. Repeatedly, he has made reference to learning from his previous mistakes and the Panthers could benefit from doing the same with another run at Anderson.
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Super Bowl LIII kicks off in Atlanta on February 3 between the New England Patriots and Los Angeles Rams.