5 dream scenarios for the Carolina Panthers in 2022

Carolina Panthers get a full season from Christian McCaffrey

The Carolina Panthers have relied too heavily on Christian McCaffrey since he entered the league as a first-round pick. This has clearly taken a heavy toll on the running back, who’s featured just 10 times over the last two seasons when his presence was needed more than ever.

McCaffrey’s dealt with a series of injury problems that have led to some debate about his status. The Panthers never seriously entertained the thought of trading the All-Pro despite an inquiry from the Buffalo Bills, but something needs to change in pursuit of keeping their best offensive weapon on the field for a prolonged period in 2022.

There are no doubting McCaffrey’s credentials when fully healthy. He remains one of the league’s best dual-threat backs and if the Panthers get a full campaign from the player next season, the better their chances will be.

Carolina did look like a different outfit with McCaffrey shouldering the load in 2021. Although this was fleeting and the Panthers had no contingency plan in place without the Stanford product.

If McCaffrey plays all 17 games, then the Panthers might just have a chance. It will also be a significant boost to whoever the team goes with under center that cannot be overlooked.

Any more problems on the injury front will lead to some severe ramifications for Carolina and the player, one suspects.