Carolina Panthers top breakout player candidates for 2018

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CHARLOTTE, NC – DECEMBER 17: Christian McCaffrey #22 of the Carolina Panthers runs the ball against the Green Bay Packers in the first quarter during their game at Bank of America Stadium on December 17, 2017 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images) /

Christian McCaffrey, Offensive Weapon

A running back by trade, McCaffrey made more of an impact in his rookie season with the Panthers as a receiver than he did as a ball carrier.

Included in his 1,306 all-purpose yards were 651 receiving yards, second on the team (Devin Funchess) despite finishing as the team’s leader in receptions (80).

McCaffrey’s abilities as an all-around player are well-documented, but he’s primed for a humongous role in 2018 as the lead character in Carolina’s offense outside of Cam Newton.

Newton ranked second on the Panthers in 2017 with 139 rushing attempts, more than McCaffrey’s 117.

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If McCaffrey absorbs a good chunk of the carries left behind by Jonathan Stewart, the former Standford star is going to challenge for 2,000 all-purpose yards in 2018 as one of the most versatile playmakers in the game.

If he can repeat his numbers as a receiver and take on an increased workload as a lead running back, it’s not out of the question to think McCaffrey will be in this year’s MVP discussion.

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