5 ways Carolina Panthers offense can make major progress in 2022
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers must share the wealth
After yet another season riddled with injury problems, the stakes could not be much higher for Christian McCaffrey in 2022. The running back is now playing on the bumper new contract he earned following the 2019 campaign, so any further complications will be an absolute catastrophe to the team’s chances.
Over-relying on McCaffrey in previous years has come back to haunt Carolina. Something that cannot happen moving forward to preserve their best weapon and utilize other playmakers more prominently.
The Panthers have enough talent to conjure a plan that maximizes McCaffrey’s usage without handing him more than 30 combined touches a game. Especially as the former first-round pick has featured 10 times over the first two seasons under Matt Rhule.
Again, this will be something Ben McAdoo has to figure out, and quickly. McCaffrey has also been investigating ways to alter his own approach to preparation to keep himself fit and firing.
McCaffrey will still be the focal point along with wide receiver D.J. Moore. Having a more productive offensive line to work behind is another major positive heading into the new season.
Sharing wealth is the only option Carolina has when competitive action commences. Going back to old habits where McCaffrey is concerned might come with some grave consequences.