Carolina Panthers running back Christian McCaffrey (22) Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Panthers RB Christian McCaffrey ruled out vs. Buccaneers

By Erin Walsh | Last updated Nov 13, 2020 2:05 PM ET

The Carolina Panthers didn't ever really expect Christian McCaffrey to play this weekend against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and on Friday he was officially ruled out for the matchup.

McCaffrey, who returned from a high-ankle sprain against the Kansas City Chiefs, injured his shoulder toward the end of last week's loss after scoring two touchdowns. Panthers head coach Matt Rhule says he's "hopeful" the star running back will be able to play Week 11 against the Detroit Lions.

Rhule is hopeful McCaffrey will return next week. It’s never been much of a long-term worry, which is why he called it day-to-day on Monday. https://t.co/vedVOmD8XW
— Bill Voth (@PanthersBill) November 13, 2020

The Panthers say McCaffrey is listed as day-to-day, though it could be a week-to-week injury.

With the 24-year-old set to be out of the lineup again, Mike Davis likely will get the start in the backfield and will have to step up against the Bucs. Quarterback Teddy Bridgewater also will need to have a solid game in McCaffrey's absence.

McCaffrey didn't miss a single game during his first three NFL seasons, including last season when he became the third player in league history to have 1,000 yards rushing and receiving in the same season. He was rewarded with a four-year, $64 million extension, but so far, that high price tag hasn't paid off for the Panthers, who have only seen him play three games this season.

Erin Walsh

Erin Walsh is a Boston sports fan through and through. She graduated Summa Cum Laude from Bridgewater State University and currently is in pursuit of her Master's Degree in Journalism from Northeastern University. Follow her on Twitter @ewalsh90

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