Christian McCaffrey (panteras) falha nas práticas

The NFL’s leading rusher is dealing with a back injury.

Carolina Panthersrunning backChristian McCaffreydid not practice Wednesday due to a back issue, per the team’s official report.

McCaffrey landed hard on his back on a flip into the end zone during thePanthers‘ win over theJacksonville Jaguarson Sunday. He also was forced out of the contest late with what was reported as cramps.

McCaffrey leads the NFL in rushing yards (587) and scrimmage yards (866). His 866 scrimmage yards are the second-most through a team’s first five games of a season since 1950 — only Jim Brown (988 in the first five games in 1963) had more.

The motor of thePanthers‘ offense, especially sinceCam Newtonwent out, McCaffrey has been a menace to defenses in both the run and passing game, dashing through wayward tackles and making defenders look silly in open space.

With a long flight to London on tap for thePantherson Thursday night, it makes sense for the team to give the running back rest. Barring an unforeseen setback, it would be a surprise if Carolina’s best player doesn’t playSundayagainst Tampa Bay — the only team that has slowed McCaffrey this season, holding him to 53 scrimmage yards in Week 2.