5 Panthers players who’ll benefit most from Cam Newton starting

Christian McCaffrey – Carolina Panthers RB

Perhaps there will be nobody happier about Cam Newton’s sensational return than Christian McCaffrey. The running back has carried a heavy burden since the Carolina Panthers parted ways with the quarterback and judging by his recent injury complications, it’s taken a toll.

McCaffrey and Newton have played together before. Albeit for a brief period before the signal-caller’s own problems staying on the field emerged.

The All-Pro was all smiles when Newton returned, and with good reason. Having him alongside McCaffrey in the backfield takes some pressure off the Stanford product and completely shifts the dynamic regarding how defenses scheme things up.

Newton’s dual-threat is renowned. He is the best running quarterback in NFL history, after all.

And in turn, McCaffrey’s presence behind Newton is going to be a fantastic security blanket for the player to call upon.

This is a mutually beneficial arrangement. One that could spearhead Carolina’s chances of attaining not only a wildcard berth but a potential divisional title.

McCaffrey was back to something like his best at the Arizona Cardinals, going over 150 all-purpose yards and providing a significant spark during times of need. Hopefully, he can remain healthy for the remaining seven games, which would give the Panthers a fighting chance.