7 RBs the Carolina Panthers should consider in 2022 free agency

Which running back should the Carolina Panthers consider signing in free agency to help ease the workload for Christian McCaffrey?

That Carolina Panthers enter free agency with needs for improvement on both sides of the ball, including major reinforcements needed along the offensive line and at quarterback. While the organization does have a superstar at one of the league’s least valuable positions, adding another running back is something the team should pursue this offseason.

Some may ask why the running back position is one of the areas of needed improvement and the answer is Christian McCaffrey‘s health. While he is is arguably the best running back in the NFL and one of the most impactful offensive weapons in the league, the All-Pro has struggled to stay on the field throughout the last two seasons.

In total, McCaffrey has missed a total of 23 of a possible 33 games due to shoulder, thigh, and ankle injuries suffered throughout the last two campaigns. As the saying goes – availability is the best ability – and McCaffrey has been unavailable for the Panthers.

Chuba Hubbard and Ameer Abdullah, a pending free agent this offseason, displayed their own unique skill sets that could help ease McCaffrey’s touches in-house going into this upcoming season. The rookie has a downhill runner skillset while Abdullah provided the versatility as a receiver out of the backfield.

However, Hubbard and Abdullah don’t move the needle much when it comes to the reliability of handling a full workload that a healthy McCaffrey can. This is why general manager Scott Fitterer and head coach Matt Rhule must find a running back capable of shouldering large responsibilities while also being impactful players due to their unique skill sets.

With this in mind, here are seven free-agent running backs the Panthers should consider signing this offseason.