49ers Nation: Christian McCaffrey hands down NFL top offensive player in 2023

What made Christian McCaffrey, the dual-threat running back for the San Francisco 49ers, the NFL’s best offensive player in 2023 instead of Lamar Jackson?
NFL dual threat leader Christian McCaffrey of the San Francisco 49ers was unquestionably the best. McCaffrey was the ultimate offensive weapon, whether it was catching the ball, rushing the ball between the tackles, or bouncing to the outside.

The 49ers running back, who is a 2023 MVP candidate, is currently ranked No. 2 on the “Final top 15 offensive player rankings of the 2023 NFL regular season” list, which places him ahead of Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson David Carr. However, as the best offensive player still alive, McCaffrey is leading his team in preparation for Super Bowl LVIII, the biggest stage on which he can demonstrate his remarkable skill.

One of the dynamic forces in the potent 49ers offense was Christian McCaffrey.

Undoubtedly the best running back in the NFL, McCaffrey was a man defenses had to plan for in more ways than one. The top five players on Carr’s list included teammate Brock Purdy, Miami Dolphins wide receiver Tyreek Hill, and Super Bowl opponent Patrick Mahomes.

Carr stated the following of McCaffrey in his NFL.com ranking:

“Christian McCaffrey made a sure-fire case to become the league MVP in 2023, with even teammate Brock Purdy — also an MVP finalist — stumping for McCaffrey to earn the award. The dynamic running back led the league in touches (339), scrimmage yards (2,023) and scrimmage TDs (21) this season, joining Hall of Famer Jim Brown as the only players in NFL history to win the scrimmage triple crown twice. This is a loaded 49ers offense, and McCaffrey still stands above the rest, as he routinely shows out, no matter how big the stage or who the opponent is.”

While it is tough to argue Jackson as the top offensive player, there is a case for McCaffrey.  As Carr mentioned, the fact that he led the NFL in touches, yards from scrimmage and TDs despite defenses locked in on stopping him can’t be ignored and showcases his ability when healthy.  Those making the case for Jackson would say McCaffrey played on a squad full of offensive stars, but I’d say that’s more impressive because he was the engine that made the offense go.

So, as NFL fanatics look ahead to Super Bowl LVIII, just remember who will be on the big stage and who is sitting at home watching McCaffrey do his thing.  A difference maker, a game changer and a player who makes players around him better, Christian McCaffrey was and is the definition of a dynamic player 2023.