Christian McCaffrey: Comparisons with 3 all-time greats
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers running back Christian McCaffrey has enjoyed a sensational start to his NFL career, but which Hall of Famers does he compare draw comparisons with?
The start Christian McCaffrey has made to his career with the Carolina Panthers has been nothing short of extraordinary. The running back has become the face of the franchise over a three-year period has more than lived up to expectations so far.
This elite level of production was further recognised by the Carolina Panthers front office this offseason. McCaffrey became the NFL’s highest-paid back after receiving a four-year, $64 million extension that included a $21 million signing bonus and a just over $38 million guaranteed.
McCaffrey was heading into the final year of his deal and getting him tied down until 2025 was a move the Panthers had to make. The organization is going through a period of transition and they will lean heavily on their All-Pro next season and beyond.
If the former Stanford prospect continues his sensational level of performances, then he is sure to be considered as an all-time great when he finally hangs up his cleats. He is widely considered to be the best dual-threat running back in the NFL. But how the player stacks against some of the most prolific to ever do it remains to be seen.
When one examines those that came before McCaffrey, there are plenty who boast the same traits as the current Panthers’ star player. This is something “Run CMC” has no doubt drawn inspiration from during his time playing the game and this motivation has been a significant springboard for some lofty number so far.
With that being said, here are three all-time great players that McCaffrey compares to most prominently.