4 replacements if Panthers lose Christian McCaffrey to injury
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers Option No. 1: Promote Reggie Bonnafon
The most obvious option for the Carolina Panthers if they lost Christian McCaffrey to injury would be to promote Reggie Bonnafon. The second-year running back showed some promise in limited action last season. And there could be more to come from the player in the coming months.
Bonnafon made the most out of finally getting a prominent shot at the next level. And although his time on the field did come with some missed chances. What the Panthers saw from the player can leave them with great encouragement.
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If Carolina lost McCaffrey through injury, then it would simply be a case of just getting through the season. Their slim chances of attaining a winning record would disintegrate instantly. And new head coach Matt Rhule would have more freedom to give fringe players an opportunity to shine.
Bonnafon makes more sense than most. And his 7.3 yards-per-carry average was the most eye-catching statistic from his effort in 2019. This was enough for the Panthers to give the player a one-year contract extension. But he will know more will be needed to get a longer-term commitment.
Seeing McCaffrey spent considerable time on the sidelines would be a hammer blow. But it could be the spark that allows Bonnafon to reach new heights.
Coming in for the odd-down is not good for continuity of rhythm. And the latter is essential for players at the position to get the most out of their abilities.