Could Rodney Smith see an increased role in Week 11 and beyond?
By Dean Jones
Rodney Smith could see more carries with the Carolina Panthers in Week 11.
Not having Christian McCaffrey has really hurt the Carolina Panthers this season. The running back has missed all-but 2.5 games in 2020 and his latest injury problem might mean he’s done for the campaign.
According to multiple reports, McCaffrey is set for a multi-week absence after suffering a shoulder injury during his first game back for the Carolina Panthers in Week 10 at the Kansas City Chiefs. Although it might be difficult, the best thing for the organization to do right now is to sit the All-Pro for the remainder of the season and give him a substantial period of rest before the 2021 campaign.
This is an easy decision to make, especially as the Panthers don’t have anything to play for. But just who assumes the workload remains unclear after primary backup Mike Davis also spent some time off the field against the Buccaneers with a thumb injury.
The veteran won’t want to give up his spot. But if the decision is taken out of his hands, it might see those on the fringes receive more in the way of carries down the stretch.
One intriguing player, in particular, is Rodney Smith.
The undrafted free-agent was part of the roster during training camp before he was eventually cut. McCaffrey’s injury enabled Carolina to bring Smith back into the mix and he should be part of their plans moving forward after Reggie Bonnafon was also ruled out for the season last week.
Just how prominent his role will be is largely dependent on Davis’ health, but he does have some exciting skills that could be of use.