5 Panthers who look primed for long-term deals through Week 5
By Dean Jones
Mike Davis – Carolina Panthers RB
Mike Davis has come in and ensured that the Carolina Panthers haven’t missed a step despite losing their star player Christian McCaffrey to injury. The veteran running back has seized the opportunity of more carries in no uncertain terms and the organization might have trouble keeping him around next spring.
This is a stark contrast to the situation Davis found himself in at the start of training camp. His $3 million in base salary this season looked in real jeopardy due to the Panthers’ salary cap constraints. But his exceptional level of performance left the coaching staff with no alternative to keep him around and move him up to No. 2 on the depth chart.
There is bound to be a role for Davis when McCaffrey is ready to return. His play from a starting role has dictated that.
Davis is ranked No. 3 in Pro Football Focus’ running back standings through five weeks, which represents a monumental achievement. This will not have gone unnoticed from other NFL teams looking for a powerful player to lead them going forward, but he’ll be getting a good offer from Carolina if he can make a similar impression with fewer touches when the face of the franchise returns.
Hopefully, this will be enough to ensure Davis’ stay with the Panthers is extended.