4 biggest challenges facing the Carolina Panthers in 2020
By Dean Jones
Biggest challenges for Carolina Panthers: Offensive balance
It was evident the Carolina Panthers leaned too much on their All-Pro running back Christian McCaffrey lasts season. The running back accumulated more than 400 touches to become only the third-ever player to record 1,000-yards rushing and receiving in the same campaign.
While the Panthers are going to rely on McCaffrey in 2020 and beyond after he signed a new four-year extension worth a little over $38 million guaranteed. To ensure the franchise gets their money’s worth they are going to have to come up with a scheme that provides more balance next season.
This will fall squarely on the shoulders of offensive coordinator Joe Brady, who comes into the NFL with a big reputation after steering the LSU Tigers’ offense to a National Championship. He also played a leading role in the exceptional development of quarterback Joe Burrow, who was taken No. 1 overall by the Cincinnati Bengals in the NFL Draft.
There is no doubt Brady has some outstanding weapons at his disposal. Wide receiver trio D.J. Moore, Robby Anderson, and Curtis Samuel all have game-changing potential. And they have a more consistent signal-caller distributing the ball in Teddy Bridgewater.
Related Story. Carolina Panthers depth chart: Plenty of potential in wide receiver room. light
Brady will know exactly how to give each player a role in his expected high-octane offense. But much will also depend on how the Panthers’ offensive line holds up against some formidable defensive lines on their schedule.
Taking some of the heat off McCaffrey will do the player’s chances of avoiding injury the world of good. It will also keep him fresh for the duration of his contract as Carolina looks to become a contender in the future.