In addition to defensive stud Brian Burns, the Panthers will probably play this week without star running back Christian McCaffrey again.
McCaffrey has only played three games this season. He looked sharp Weeks 1-2 in losses to the Raiders and Buccaneers, but suffered a high ankle sprain late against Tampa. That put him on injured reserve for six weeks. When he returned against the Chiefs Week 9, McCaffrey was true to form. However, he suffered another fourth quarter injury – this time to his shoulder. During the bye week, McCaffrey had another setback when he hurt his thigh. Add it all up and it’s been a frustrating, injury-riddled year for No. 22.
As for this week’s game, coach Matt Rhule told the media today McCaffrey is “dying to play” but he’s just not there, yet.
Matt Rhule says Christian McCaffrey wants to play, but he's not able to play. "He's dying to play, but he's just not there, yet."
— Joe Person (@josephperson) December 24, 2020
Sad stuff.
Right now, it’s a tossup between Derrick Henry and Alvin Kamara as to who the best running back in the NFL is. When McCaffrey is healthy again he’ll be back in that conversation, though.
