The Carolina Panthers will be without star running back Christian McCaffrey for at least the next four games as he continues to rehab from a nagging injury. The team will reevaluate his status in a month to determine his progress, according to reports.
Head coach Kyle Shanahan provided an update on McCaffrey’s condition, stating that he will not require a procedure at this time. Shanahan indicated that a decision on whether to place McCaffrey on injured reserve would be made within the next 24 hours. The coach expressed concern about McCaffrey’s recent setback, describing Thursday as the running back’s “worst day.”
“It’s on and off, but with yesterday having the most pain, it’s something we’re going to be discussing,” Shanahan said of McCaffrey’s injury.
Shanahan also discussed his confidence in the team’s running back depth behind McCaffrey. The depth chart currently features Jordan Mason, Isaac Guerendo, and Patrick Taylor Jr. as potential options to fill the void left by McCaffrey’s absence.
“Taylor had real good OTAs and training camp with us,” Shanahan said. “Guerendo, he missed so much time. But then when he got those two games, he was rolling. I think those guys are capable of being ones, as Elijah’s shown in the past. And so has JP. When their opportunity comes, I believe they’re ready.”
Mason, who impressed in a recent game, will now have the chance to prove himself as a viable option at running back for the team in McCaffrey’s absence.
The loss of McCaffrey is a significant blow to the Panthers, but Shanahan remains optimistic about the team’s ability to overcome this challenge. With a talented group of running backs ready to step up, the Panthers will look to maintain their strong start to the season despite the absence of their star player.