The Panthers aren’t necessarily shopping Christian McCaffrey, but they’re at least willing to listen. As the calls keep coming in, the Panthers are open to the right offer, according to league sources who spoke with David Newton of ESPN.com. 
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Newton hears that another team could pry the star running back away for a quality package, one that includes a first-round pick and a cap-friendly player. From a football perspective, that’s not a monumental ask. However, when considering CMC’s contract, that could be easier said than done.
McCaffrey’s contract furnishes him with $16MM/year on average, an all-time record for running backs. And, as the years go on, that cap hit escalates. This year, it’ll be a $14.3MM figure. In 2023 and 2024, he’s in line for cap hits of $17.7MM. The Panthers — currently projected to have $26.5MM in space — can afford to keep him, but they may prefer draft capital and flexibility instead.
McCaffrey, 26 in June, has played just ten games over the past two seasons. Before the ankle and hamstring injuries, CMC was a 2019 All-Pro with an NFL-leading 2,392 scrimmage yards.
Praying for him
The only asset this team has! Somebody will be tickled to get him. Just not Carolina?
They have significantly better assets, like guys who have actually played most of their games, play more valuable positions, and make a lot less money.
NE on line 1.
I doubt it only because Belichick rarely has a “bell cow” running back. He seems to prefer the committee approach, plus that way he can bench a guy any time he fumbles.
The Patriots have been getting much, much better production out of their 3rd round RB and their 4th round rookie RB than they got out of the one they drafted in the first round. I think they’ve relearned their lesson about overspending on running backs. Especially since the one thing they have plenty of is short range weapons.
The running back position has become so devalued in so many people’s minds, and McCaffrey has had an unfortunate string of injuries. But man, it has to be tempting for at least a few teams to seriously pursue making a deal for him, he’s that good.
One of the reasons the position is devalued is because they take so much punishment and rack up so many injuries. If you want a top running game, the money’s usually better spent on an offensive line while you bring in running backs on rookie deals.
I generally agree but playing in the trenches is ground zero for punishment and only a handful of OL are elite at both pass and run blocking.
No shot CAR gets a 1st and a good young player. CMC has missed too much time past 2 seasons plus the contract. My guess is either a 2nd that conveys to a 1st based on games played.
Or a lesser day 2 pick and decent young player
I would never trade a first round pick for him!!