5 early winners from the Carolina Panthers 2021 offseason program

Christian McCaffrey – Carolina Panthers RB

Getting back onto the field away so long away from the gridiron in 2020 was probably a welcome relief for Christian McCaffrey. The running back certainly looks fit and ready to get back to the form of old if his appearance during the offseason so far is any indication, which could make all the difference where the Carolina Panthers are concerned.

McCaffrey is the beating heart of Carolina’s offense and is obviously the face of the franchise after the team decided to release Cam Newton last year.

There is an air of doubt surrounding the former first-round pick for arguably the first time in his career. McCaffrey has shouldered plenty of the load over his four years with the Panthers and whether that played a part in him missing all but three games of the previous campaign is up for debate.

Carolina recognized the need to alleviate some of the pressure from McCaffrey this offseason. Chuba Hubbard was taken in the fourth round of the 2021 NFL Draft and the passing game should shoulder more responsibility with some electrifying weapons for new quarterback Sam Darnold to utilize.

Everything good will come through McCaffrey once again.

But keeping him fresh is vital to Carolina’s short and long-term aspirations.

Make no mistake, having additional options available to them is great for McCaffrey. If the All-Pro can maximize his production with whatever carries and targets come his way, his status as the league’s best dual-threat player at the position will go back to being unquestioned.