4 critical observations from the Panthers success vs. Falcons in Week 10
By Luke Gray
Carolina Panthers must extend D’Onta Foreman
When the Carolina Panthers traded Christian McCaffrey following Week 6, fans were excited to finally see what free agent signing D’Onta Foreman could do in a more prominent role. While there was optimism, I doubt even the most confident fan would have predicted what the former Texas Longhorn has done.
In his four starts since the McCaffrey trade, Foreman has rushed for an incredible 389 yards. Considering carried the ball just seven times for 23 yards at the Cincinnati Bengals, in three contests he has 366 yards on the ground and four touchdowns.
Impressive work for a guy who seemed to be an afterthought under the previous head coach. This further puts the ridiculous contract the Panthers gave McCaffrey firmly in the spotlight.
Foreman signed a one-year, $2 million deal in free agency. A far cry from the $64 million deal that Marty Hurney gave McCaffrey.
What we’ve seen this season is a vastly improved offensive line and a running back who fits the downhill running style Carolina wants to deploy. Something that ensured Foreman will be in strong contention for a new contract to prevent him from leaving next spring.
General manager Scott Fitterer should look to extend Foreman if his production continues. Depending on what the Panthers wish to do with Chuba Hubbard and Raheem Blackshear, the team may use one of its 2023 draft selections on running back, with Bijan Robinson and Jahmyr Gibbs two names to watch.