Christian McCaffrey was one of the top stars in focus during the 2020 NFL offseason. The highly-rated running back was ranked sixth overall in this year’s NFL Top 100 list.
He also joined the elite company of Michael Thomas and Patrick Mahomes in the latest edition of EA Sports Madden NFL. All 3 players got a maximum rating of 99 along with Los Angeles Rams defensive end Aaron Donald.
However, McCaffrey’s 2020 NFL outing is not going as anticipated. The running back hasn’t featured for the Panthers since he suffered an ankle sprain in Week 2. Earlier this week, coach Matt Rhule gave the green light to allow McCaffrey to resume training with the team in a limited capacity.
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But it seems like the 24-year-old is not yet ready to make a return just yet.
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Carolina Panthers fans will have to wait for Christian McCaffrey return
#Panthers RB Christian McCaffrey (ankle) isn’t expected to be activated from injured reserve for tonight’s game against the #Falcons, per sources. He returned to practice Tuesday and Carolina hasn’t formally ruled him out. But it was a long shot all week and remains that way.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) October 29, 2020
As per NFL insider Tom Pelissero, McCaffrey is not yet deemed fit to feature in Week 8. The Panthers appear to be in a hurry to throw in their prized asset.
The Colorado-born athlete signed a $64 million contract extension with the NFC South franchise in the offseason. He was undoubtedly their star player in 2019. He rushed for 1,300+ yards last season with 15 rushing TDs to his name.
Here’s what Head Coach Matt Rhule said about his star running back on Tuesday. “I think he was excited and exhilarated to be out there today, to be out there with his teammates, to have a chance to practice.
“I know he wants to play, but I also know he’s a process guy and understands that we can’t shortcut the process,” coach Rhule told the team’s official website.
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Christian McCaffrey is back at Panthers practice, per @MylesASimmons 👀
CMC hasn’t played since Week 2 pic.twitter.com/5CTO5QrEd4
— B/R Gridiron (@brgridiron) October 26, 2020
The Panthers take on fellow NFC South rivals Atlanta Falcons in Week 8. Teddy Bridgewater has led the home team to a 3-4 record. They will look to improve on that, with or without McCaffrey, on the roster.
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Meanwhile, the Falcons are 1-6 as we approach the halfway stage of the competition. Quarterback Matt Ryan will be desperate to improve over the coming weeks.
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