The Carolina Panthers drafted running back Christian McCaffrey eighth overall during the 2017 NFL Draft. As a rookie, McCaffrey was eased into his current role, splitting time and operating as a change of pace type back from veteran Jonathan Stewart. However, McCaffrey proved capable of shouldering a full load and coach Ron Rivera gladly handed him a ton more responsibility during his sophomore season.
During his rookie campaign McCaffrey accumulated a total of 197 touches – 117 carries and 80 receptions but only seven total touchdowns. The numbers increased in his second season as McCaffrey became the featured back and a key component to offensive coordinator Norv Turner’s offense.