5 players the Carolina Panthers should not give up on in 2022

Christian McCaffrey – Carolina Panthers RB

This might look like a strange addition to this particular list. But after another season frustrated by injury problems, there is legitimate concern surrounding Christian McCaffrey and his ability to stay healthy for a consistent period of time.

The running back remains one of the league’s best when fit and firing on all cylinders. However, McCaffrey has appeared just 10 times over the last two years and the Carolina Panthers once again had absolutely no clue how to cope without their primary offensive weapon.

That is down to coaching and poor planning, in all honesty. If the Panthers want to stand any chance of progression in Year 3 of Matt Rhule’s tenure, then a better plan needs to be formed in the event further complications emerge for the All-Pro.

Taking the pressure off McCaffrey would help. Utilizing him more in the passing game rather than running the football could also prolong the player’s career.

Trading him away entirely seems unrealistic despite general manager Scott Fitterer stating he would take calls for the former first-round pick. If nothing else, teams will be highly reluctant to take on McCaffrey’s contract and the Panthers would also eat a substantial amount of dead-cap money they could do without.

Some fans might have given up on McCaffrey, which is fine. But if he is fresh and managed correctly next season, a bounce-back campaign is well within his capabilities.