Carolina Panthers: 6 Bold Predictions for the 2018 season

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CHARLOTTE, NC – AUGUST 17: Christian McCaffrey #22 of the Carolina Panthers runs for a touchdown against the Miami Dolphins in the first quarter during the game at Bank of America Stadium on August 17, 2018 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images) /

Christian McCaffrey earns trip to Pro Bowl

Even though Christian McCaffrey is only entering his second year in the NFL, this year has the makings of a special season for the Panthers’ running back.

As a rookie, McCaffrey showcased his ability as a pass catcher finishing with 80 receptions on 113 targets for 651 receiving yards and five touchdowns. He finished 15th in the NFL in receptions last year.

The area he struggled, and the one that presents the most room for improvement, is carrying the ball. He finished the year with 435 rushing yards and only averaged 3.7 yards per carry.

This preseason though he has looked much better carrying the ball in Norv Turner’s offense and finished with 151 rushing yards on 21 carries and averaged 7.19 yards per carry. This included a 71-yard run against the Dolphins, a total that was greater than every game last year.

The reason though McCaffrey will likely earn a trip to the Pro Bowl is opportunity. He is expected to see a majority of the carries in this offense and that increase, along with improved play calling, should set him up for a special season.

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