Carolina Panthers: Is McCaffrey’s deal good news for NFL running backs?
By Dean Jones
What does McCaffrey’s new deal mean?
Christian McCaffrey now has the financial security that such a productive player deserves. He is now unquestionably the face of the franchise and someone they can build their offense around for the foreseeable future.
Having the player around long-term is going to wonders for head coach Matt Rhule and quarterback Teddy Bridgewater. Both are new to the organization and are sure to lean on their All-Pro running back heavily during the early stages of the season.
The contract is also good news for Carolina Panthers’ fans, who are increasingly concerned about the team’s overall fortunes in a highly competitive NFC South next season. Although it is still going to be a struggle, they will at least get plenty of memorable highlights from McCaffrey in 2020 and beyond.
It also represents a problem for other NFL teams with their running backs. Plenty of established players are either playing on the franchise tag or heading into the final year of their respective deals. This contract extension has no doubt made them sit up and take notice as they search for a similar financial commitment.
The gauntlet has been laid down by the Panthers for any upcoming new contracts. McCaffrey is arguably the best performer out of anyone at the position in the regular season and it was only right that he led the way to set a benchmark.
One would expect an increased sense of urgency from other teams in the coming weeks as they look to avoid further complications down the line.