Carolina Panthers top 4 training camp battles in 2022
By Austin Cave
Carolina Panthers training camp battle no. 3: Backup Running Back
While tight end may be drawing more eyes around the league, running back is becoming less and less valued by the NFL community.
A healthy Christian McCaffrey is a lock to be the lead back. The backup running back will be asked to give McCaffrey a break or potentially be his replacement should he go down again.
Looking at the Carolina backfield, there are two clear options for the backup running back spot. These two are second-year man Chuba Hubbard and veteran D’Onta Foreman.
Hubbard was able to show what he brings to the table after Christian McCaffrey went down early in the 2021 season. He showed flashes but was nothing special.
D’Onta Foreman found himself in a similar spot as Hubbard did last season in Tennessee. After the great King Derrick Henry went down for the Titans, Foreman stepped in and played well.
At times he played very well. A hard runner that fit what Tennessee needed with Henry out, he helped the Titans claim the top seed in the AFC. Foreman hit free agency and decided to sign with the Panthers.
While Hubbard comes with familiarity with the team, youth, speed, and possibly more upside, Foreman’s package contains more NFL experience and a more proven skillset.
Both are skilled running backs that have a role on this team. The battle is important for each because it could mean potential starts or increased snap shares if they stand out from the other.
This battle should also have a big impact on Fantasy Football, so remember to check in on this duel.