Christian McCaffrey Says Panthers Trade Rumors Are 'Out of My Control'

Carolina Panthers star Christian McCaffrey is focusing on what's in front of him as rumors swirl regarding his future with the team.

Following Sunday's 24-10 loss to the Los Angeles Rams, McCaffrey told reporters all of the trade discourse and machinations are "out of my control."

ESPN's Adam Schefter reported Saturday the Panthers "are listening to other teams" about a possible swap involving the 2019 All-Pro.

Carolina waved the white flag for this year when it fired head coach Matt Rhule. Now, many are left wondering to what extent general manager Scott Fitterer is willing to tear down the roster to lay the groundwork for the future.

That factor aside, the front office would be foolish not to at least explore what offers are on the table for McCaffrey. He's a 26-year-old running back who was limited to 10 games across 2020 and 2021. The days of him surpassing 2,000 yards from scrimmage might already be over.

For now, the 2017 first-round pick is looking a little more like his old self. Counting Sunday, he has run for 393 yards and two touchdowns while hauling in 33 receptions for 277 yards and one score.

That might only serve to raise his trade value, though. Fox Sports' Peter Schrager reported Sunday that multiple first-round picks might be the price tag for McCaffrey. If at least one first-rounder is the starting point, then it could discourage some of the most logical suitors.

This may not be a situation where the Panthers are desperate to move on and would accept less than expected to make it happen.

The trade deadline will pass at 4 p.m. ET on Nov. 1. Until then, McCaffrey might be stuck between a rock and a hard place.