The Carolina Panthers placed running back Christian McCaffrey on injured reserve Saturday, sidelining him for at least the next three weeks as he recovers from a hamstring injury.
McCaffrey, 25, had already been ruled out for Sunday’s game against the visiting Minnesota Vikings (2-3).
McCaffrey was a limited participant in Wednesday’s practice and did not practice Thursday or Friday for the Panthers (3-2). The Panthers’ medical staff met on Saturday and decided the extended break was his best chance at a full recovery.
McCaffrey sustained the injury during Carolina’s 24-9 victory over the Houston Texans on Sept. 23.
An All-Pro, McCaffrey has 52 carries for 201 yards and a touchdown to go along with 16 receptions for 163 yards in three games this season. He played only three games in 2020 due to a high ankle sprain and a shoulder injury.
The Panthers also placed rookie guard Deonte Brown (knee) on injured reserve and signed practice squad guard Michael Jordan to the main roster.
The Panthers have yet to replace McCaffrey on the 53-man roster.
