Although they’re not actively shopping him, the Carolina Panthers are reportedly fielding trade inquiries for Christian McCaffrey.
According to CBS Sports insider Jonathan Jones, the Panthers have received “more than one call” for the star running back, who has played just 10 games since signing a four-year, $64 million extension in 2020. Jones said the team would require a first-round pick and “another piece of compensation” to move the 25-year-old.
The Panthers have gotten calls about RB Christian McCaffrey. That and more in my post-combine notebook from Indy https://t.co/BfvP3jJiki
— Jonathan Jones (@jjones9) March 7, 2022
When healthy, McCaffrey may still be the game’s most complete running back. He compiled 1,965 scrimmage yards in his second season before earning All-Pro honors with 1,387 rushing yards, 1,005 receiving yards, and 19 total touchdowns in 2019.
However, he’s since succumbed to multiple injuries. McCaffrey suffered a high ankle sprain in Week 2 of the 2020 season. After missing six games, he injured his shoulder and faced a season-ending setback during his rehab.
Last year, the former Stanford star again went on the injured reserve early, this time due to a hamstring injury. Upon his return, McCaffrey lasted four games before a left ankle injury concluded his season.
Trading a first-round pick and more is a steep price for any running back, let alone one with the league’s highest annual salary following multiple health setbacks.
The Panthers could be setting the bar high as a signal that they’ll only deal McCaffrey if blown away with an offer they can’t refuse. Don’t expect a suitor to meet that steep asking price.
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