The 4-8 Panthers could get a massive boost this week as they play host to the Denver Broncos, as coach Matt Rhule says he expects running back Christian McCaffrey to be healthy enough to play.
Carolina, coming off a bye week, have the Broncos at home, then go to Green Bay, play at Washington and close out the 2020 slate at home against the New Orleans Saints.
McCaffrey has been nursing a high ankle sprain as well as shoulder injury, but was able to take part, albeit in a limited capacity, in practice leading up to the team’s loss a week ago Sunday against Minnesota.
“There’s nothing to make me think he’s not (going to play),” Rhule said.
“Just a matter of if he feels like he can go.”
In a rather odd stat, the Panthers are 0-3 with McCaffrey and 4-5 in games he has missed, but there is no doubt that the team is that much better with the 24-year-old out there.
In 2020 McCaffery has rushed for just 225 yards with five touchdowns after his injury woes began in week two.