Panthers hopeful McCaffrey can return vs. Broncos

Carolina Panthers running back Christian McCaffrey seems to be trending toward a return.

Head coach Matt Rhule said Monday that he is "hopeful" McCaffrey will suit up Sunday against the Denver Broncos, according to team reporter Bill Voth.

McCaffrey has been sidelined since injuring his shoulder in Week 9 and has played just three games this season.

The Panthers' facility is currently closed due to COVID-19 concerns, but Rhule noted McCaffrey would have likely practiced Monday had it remained open, according to The Athletic's Joe Person.

Coming off his first Pro Bowl season, McCaffrey has carried the football just 59 times this year and has struggled to get going. The 24-year-old is averaging 3.8 yards per carry.

Rhule is also hopeful to get cornerback Donte Jackson back this week. Jackson hasn't played since Week 10 and has grabbed three interceptions in 2020.

Copyright (C) 2020 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.