5 critical observations from Christian McCaffrey’s 2021 season

Carolina Panthers could trade Christian McCaffrey

Considering the injury problems and lack of availability for Christian McCaffrey over the last two seasons, talk of a potential trade was always going to come up this offseason. The Carolina Panthers don’t have much in the way of capital heading into the 2022 NFL Draft and speculation linking the player with a move away from the organization has been rife for a number of weeks.

General manager Scott Fitterer looked to dispel this notion during his exit presser. The front office figure stated he would take calls regarding McCaffrey, but it would take an astronomical offer for the Panthers to consider parting ways with their best offensive weapon.

"“There was a report back in November that we were actively trying to trade him, and I told him that was not true. What I did tell him was, ‘Hey, listen, I’ll take any call. Call and make any offer you want.’ That doesn’t mean we’ll do it. That doesn’t mean we’re shopping you.’ I look at Christian as a foundation piece on this team. We’re a better team when he’s on the field. He’s one of the elite players in the NFL.”"

This is a fluid situation that is worth monitoring closely. McCaffrey has been an indispensable member of the roster in recent years, but the best ability is availability and that’s why it might be worth exploring a potential deal.

Of course, teams might be reluctant to sacrifice valuable draft capital for McCaffrey. And that’s without considering the bumper contract given to him by the Panthers last year.