3 big ways the Panthers have helped Christian McCaffrey this offseason
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers got Christian McCaffrey a new OC
Team owner David Tepper gave head coach Matt Rhule a reprieve despite the Carolina Panthers falling to defeat in 12 of their final 14 games last season. This was something of a surprise considering the general perception surrounding his job status, but the billionaire is ready to give his guy one final opportunity to turn this sinking ship in the right direction.
One of the biggest factors of the offseason has been Carolina gutting their coaching staff, with struggling coaches replaced by experienced figures with legitimate NFL success. Among the most high-profile is Ben McAdoo, who was chosen as the team’s new offensive coordinator after Rhule fired Joe Brady midway through their bye week.
This should be great news for Christian McCaffrey. McAdoo is experienced enough to know how best to utilize the player, which could see fewer touches in a bid to maximize his production both on running downs and in the passing game.
The Panthers are intent on moving forward with a downhill running attack and finding a quarterback that can thrive off play-action. Just who is going to be under center remains undecided, but McAdoo should be aware that the beating heart of this offense will be McCaffrey, in any case.
McAdoo’s time as head coach of the New York Giants didn’t end on the brightest note. But few would argue about his credentials as an NFL play-caller and if he hits it off with McCaffrey, the sky is the limit.