5 players who will make or break the Carolina Panthers season in 2021
By Dean Jones
Christian McCaffrey – Carolina Panthers RB
There remains plenty of pressure on the shoulders of Christian McCaffrey next season. The Carolina Panthers missed their best offensive weapon for the large majority of 2020 and getting him back and healthy is a significant boost to their hopes of surprising preseason predictions.
McCaffrey made just three appearances during the previous campaign. He was still playing at elite level when on the field, but not having the All-Pro in critical moments down the stretch cost the Panthers in a big way.
There appears little doubt Carolina is contemplating taking some touches away from McCaffrey to preserve his health. Much will depend on how fourth-round pick Chuba Hubbard adapts to the next level coming out of Oklahoma State, who was brought in to provide some instant firepower when the former Stanford standout needs some rest.
Even though there is an abundance of talent on the Panthers, everything positive on offense will continue to go through McCaffrey in some shape or form.
If the same injury problems befall McCaffrey in 2021. The repercussions will be catastrophic.
Not only would the Panthers find it difficult to turn being competitive into close fought victories. But it will also thrown even more doubt on the team’s decision to give their star player a four-year, $64 million deal with a $21 million signing bonus and $38 million guaranteed last offseason.