4 Panthers players who might have already peaked before 2022
By Dean Jones
Christian McCaffrey – Carolina Panthers RB
There are no doubting Christian McCaffrey‘s credentials when fit and firing on all cylinders. But after featuring just 10 times over the last two seasons, something has to change for the player and the Carolina Panthers moving forward.
McCaffrey looks raring to go once again and there should also be a shift in approach under Ben McAdoo. Something that can hopefully see the offense become a balanced, efficient unit if Baker Mayfield lives up to his end of the bargain.
With that being said, there is a chance McCaffrey’s numbers have already peaked. Make no mistake, this is not necessarily a bad thing if the Panthers can keep him healthy.
Reducing the former first-round pick’s touches and maximizing his contribution in a slightly lesser role will be a core component behind any success that comes Carolina’s way next season. McCaffrey also appears willing to compromise given his eagerness to change his own methods this spring.
One suspects McCaffrey will remain the focal point and there is the obvious temptation to return to old habits if things aren’t going well. Keeping the bigger picture in mind where the Stanford product is concerned would be wise, but it’s unlikely considering the need to win right now.