4 clear strengths the Carolina Panthers can depend on in 2021
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers RBs
This is all dependent on one thing.
The health of Christian McCaffrey.
After missing 13 games due to ankle, shoulder, and quad problems in 2020, the Carolina Panthers get their face of the franchise back and will be hoping there are no further complications where McCaffrey is concerned.
McCaffrey’s presence on the field completely changes the dynamic. Opposing defenses key-in on the All-Pro – and with good reason – so this could benefit Carolina’s passing game an untold amount with eight or nine in the box consistently.
The Panthers will do their best to take the heat off McCaffrey to keep him fresh and firing on all cylinders. This could mean a big role right out of the gate for rookie running back Chuba Hubbard.
His contribution steadily increased throughout training camp and Hubbard also left his mark during preseason games. The Oklahoma State product has a lot to offer not only when McCaffrey gets some rest, but the prospect of using two-back sets is something Joe Brady shouldn’t ignore.
Had McCaffrey been on the field for all 16 games last season, Carolina’s record would have been different. Hopefully, the player can return to his iron man image of old and make a substantial impact in the process.