Christian McCaffrey Trending Towards Not Playing Sunday

Christian McCaffrey has dealt with injuries throughout the season. The former top 10 pick for the Carolina Panthers has been able to play in only three games this year, and it's starting to look like he won't be available on Sunday either.

McCaffrey, once again, missed practice on Wednesday. Based on comments from Matt Rhule earlier this week, today was going to be key in determining whether the Stanford product would play.

It's an unfortunate development, but their sights need to be set on 2021 anyways. The Panthers are tied for the worst record in the NFC South at 4-10, and there isn't much of a reason to rush McCaffrey back for the final two games.

Backup running back Mike Davis has been a pleasant surprise in McCaffrey's absence. The six-year veteran has totaled 987 yards (614 rushing, 373 receiving) and seven scores this season.

Is he McCaffrey? Absolutely not. Davis has been somewhat effective as a runner and receiver, but he lacks true breakaway speed. He also lacks a true play-making ability at the position. That's why the South Carolina product has only two carries exceeding 20 yards.

He's been good enough, however, and he should continue to be in McCaffrey's absence.

Follow Clint Lamb on Twitter @ClintRLamb.