3 reasons the Panthers could surpass preseason expectations in 2021
By Dean Jones
Christian McCaffrey’s return to health
If the Carolina Panthers get Christian McCaffrey for a full 17-game season in 2021, it will be almost like a new signing. The running back featured in just three games last time out and although the team remained competitive in his absence, there is little doubt they missed the All-Pro during critical moments when the game was on the line.
Although it would be wise for the Panthers to take some responsibility off McCaffrey’s shoulders to preserve his health moving forward, he will still be the focal point of their offense.
This is a player who became only the third back in NFL history to go over 1,000 yards rushing and receiving in the same season in 2019, which some people have forgotten quickly.
Out of sight, out of mind.
However, it won’t take long for them to figure out just what a special player McCaffrey is once again. He is a critical piece of the puzzle in Carolina and it’s clear he is chomping at the bit to make his presence felt after missing so much of the previous campaign.
The Panthers have plenty of weapons on the offensive side of the ball, which will also assist McCaffrey. Maximizing his production will be key if they want to give him a breather here and there, so if the coaching staff finds the right balance where the former first-round pick is concerned, big things could be in Carolina’s future.