4 Carolina Panthers players that must be extended after 2022 efforts

D’Onta Foreman – Carolina Panthers RB

It didn’t look like D’Onta Foreman was going to get much of a look under Matt Rhule. The running back was an afterthought before the head coach was fired and the Carolina Panthers traded Christian McCaffrey to the San Francisco 49ers, which ended up being the opportunity he craved earlier in the campaign.

Foreman immediately established himself as the No. 1 option. Although the contribution of Chuba Hubbard from the primary backup role assisted greatly within Carolina’s run-first scheme.

The bruising back was a constant menace, displaying the physicality and nifty footwork to wear down defenses with the right volume. There were times of struggle, but the fact opposing defensive systems set their sights on thwarting his influence spoke volumes about the impact made in such a short space of time.

This was exactly what the Panthers needed after letting their star player depart for substantial draft compensation. Foreman concluded the season with 914 rushing yards and five touchdowns, which should be enough to convince those in power he’s worthy of a bigger commitment.

Much will depend on the finances involved. But keeping the one-two punch of Foreman and Hubbard together could be worth its weight in gold.