Panthers: 4 opt-outs that would guarantee Trevor Lawrence in 2021
By Dean Jones
Scouting Report. RB. CAROLINA PANTHERS. CHRISTIANMCCAFFREY. player. 87. Pick Analysis. 1
Carolina Panthers Player No. 1: Christian McCaffrey (RB)
Running back Christian McCaffrey is the most indispensable member of the Carolina Panthers. The All-Pro is the new face of the franchise after a standout first three years in the NFL. And everything good on offense will go through him once again in 2020.
If McCaffrey decided to opt-out due to safety concerns, then the Panthers’ slim hopes of securing a winning record would evaporate. Reggie Bonnafon showed promise as a No. 2 back in 2019. But he is nowhere near ready to take on a full load in only his second season.
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There has been no indication that McCaffery is going to opt-out. And it would seem like a strange move after recently signing a four-year, $64 million extension with a $21 million signing bonus and $38 million guaranteed.
However, the fact remains that everything is still up in the air regarding specific individuals. And if players do not feel like the NFL is doing enough to guarantee their safety, then they will be forced to take drastic action.
McCaffrey became only the third player in league history to record 1,000-yards rushing and receiving in the same season in 2019. His opt-out would have a significant impact on the running and passing game thanks to the former first-round pick’s ability to make things happen on any given down.
There is a chance McCaffrey can get even better with fewer touches in Joe Brady’s scheme. And the Panthers will not want their star man making this sort of decision.