What You Need to Know:

-2020 was a trying year for CMC. After signing a contract extension in the offseason, he suffered a high ankle sprain in Week 2.

-McCaffrey returned for Week 9 to carry 18 times for 69 yards — plus add 10 catches. It marked the 9th time he’s caught 10+ balls in his 4-year career. Insane.

-However, he also sustained a shoulder sprain in that game. Combined with a quad/thigh injury weeks down the road, CMC never saw the field again. It’s possible he could have played near the tail end of the season, but the Panthers — out of the playoff mix — played it safe.

-CMC finished with 59-225-5 rushing and 19-17-149-1 receiving. A small sample size for sure — but nothing surprising under new HC Matt Rhule and OC Joe Brady.

-Carolina’s O-line ranked 19th in Pro Football Focus’ run-blocking grades. They lost veteran LT Russell Okung but added a potential replacement in BYU rookie Brady Christensen.

-Veterans Cameron Erving (another potential LT) and Pat Elflein (a potential interior starter) arrived in free agency. Most critically, RT Taylor Moton was retained via the franchise tag.

-The Jets acquired Sam Darnold over the offseason. He represents a major downgrade from Teddy Bridgewater when it comes to accuracy. But don’t expect Darnold to torpedo CMC’s fantasy value.

-A supporting cast that includes DJ Moore, Robby Anderson and rookie Terrace Marshall looks strong. McCaffrey shouldn’t see a ton of loaded boxes.

Draft Sharks Bottom Line

Before a non-existent 2020, McCaffrey’s career started with PPR finishes of RB9, RB2 and RB1. You know he’s well established as an elite, dual-threat playmaker.

The question is whether or not he’s worth the 1st overall pick in fantasy drafts. Our answer: Yes. 2020 turned up the only missed games of his career. And you won’t find a RB with a better combination of ability, touch safety and reception upside.

We’d be surprised if the 25-year-old McCaffrey doesn’t rebound.