NFL’s short memory evident once again with Christian McCaffrey

Christian McCaffrey’s motivation in 2021

Although he is quite a quiet character when it comes to the spotlight, the recent trade rumors surrounding Christian McCaffrey won’t have gone unnoticed by the player. He probably won’t publicly comment on them, but it would not be a surprise if he takes them extremely personally considering his level of production since entering the league in 2017.

McCaffrey has achieved plenty in his short time at the next level. He is a Pro Bowler, a first-team All-Pro, and is arguably the best dual-threat running back in the league.

Again, something people seem to have forgotten after his frustrating 2020 campaign.

Even though McCaffrey missed 13 games last season, his career stats so far are simply extraordinary.

• 51 games played (45 starts)
• 3,145 rushing yards (682 carries)
• 29 rushing touchdowns
• 320 receptions (398 targets)
• 2,672 receiving yards
• 16 receiving touchdowns
• 5,817 yards from scrimmage
• 5.8 yards-per-touch

Absolutely incredible whichever way one looks at it.

These stats, coupled with the fact McCaffrey hadn’t missed a game for the Carolina Panthers before the season, was the reason he was given a four-year, $64 million deal that also included a $21 million signing bonus and $38 million guaranteed.

What came next is not what anybody had anticipated. But providing there are no more complications, McCaffrey should once again return to his role as the focal point of Carolina’s offense moving forward.

And make no mistake, he hears everything that’s being said about his durability and lack of importance. So this is all the motivation he needs to return to the player of old at the earliest possible opportunity.