Panthers: Christian McCaffrey rightfully joins Madden 99 Club

Carolina Panthers running back Christian McCaffrey became the latest player to receive a 99 grade from Madden.

There is simply nothing that Christian McCaffrey cannot do with the ball in his hands. The Carolina Panthers struck gold with their first-round pick in 2017. And he is now officially the face of the franchise following the departure of quarterback Cam Newton.

McCaffrey enjoyed a sensational season in 2019 to secure his first-ever All-Pro selection. The former Stanford product became only the third person in NFL history to go over more than 1,000-yards rushing and receiving in the same campaign. And it was enough for the Panthers to buck the league trend of not paying players at the position.

A four-year, $64 million deal with a $21 million signing bonus and $38 million guaranteed makes McCaffrey the highest-paid running back in NFL history. It also ties the player down to the organization for his best years. And this is going to be crucial as head coach Matt Rhule looks to make them a contender once again.

The player’s efforts on the field did not go unnoticed by those making the annual Madden video game. McCaffrey became the latest individual to receive a 99 grade, which is the highest possible number someone can receive.

This came on the back of the announcement regarding Kansas City Chiefs signal-caller Patrick Mahomes also getting this particular distinction for the first time in his glittering young career. There is little doubt that either player is not deserving of such a prestigious mark, which is down in no small part to their incredible rise to prominence since entering the league.

Can Christian McCaffrey build on his recent success with the Panthers?

While it would be foolish for the Panthers to give McCaffrey more than 400 touches in 2020. There is a possibility that the back can get even better thanks to the presence of new offensive coordinator Joe Brady.

He masterminded LSU’s passing attack to a National Championship in 2019. And if he can have the same sort of influence at the next level. It could elevate the Panthers and McCaffrey to even greater heights going forward.

Some prominent features to McCaffrey’s 99 grade from Madden is a juke move of 96. He was also allocated a 92 for speed and 98 in carrying to ensure that he is going to be one of the game’s most electrifying players.

The Panthers will need him to be all this and more next season. McCaffrey is the best dual-threat back in the NFL. And he will be the main feature on an offense that has the potential to put some substantial points on the board.