Stunner: Panthers are trading Pro-Bowl RB Christian McCaffrey to the San Francisco 49ers in exchange for draft picks, sources tell ESPN.
McCaffrey returns to the Bay Area, where he attended Stanford.
Related players: D'Onta Foreman, Chuba Hubbard, Elijah Mitchell, Jeff Wilson
This should enhance McCaffrey's value since the 49ers run a more competent offense than the Panthers. Elijah Mitchell is no longer expected to be a fantasy starter upon his return from injury, and can be dropped if necessary. He's an attrition RB2 now. Jimmy Garoppolo should benefit by having such a good receiving back to throw to, but targets are already at a premium, so Deebo Samuel, Brandon Aiyuk and George Kittle each take a slight hit. In Carolina, we'll likely see a committee consisting of D'Onta Foreman on early downs and Chuba Hubbard as a third-down/change-of-pace back. On the season, Foreman has played 31 snaps while Hubbard has played 30. Foreman has 12 touches (all carries), while Hubbard has six carries and one reception.