Panthers Claim Ex-Bears Running Back Mike Davis Off Waivers
By Michael Luciano
Mike Davis did not have to wait long to find employment, as the former Chicago Bears RB is latching on with an NFC South team desperate for more competition in the running backs room.
Davis, who was put on waivers by Chicago last week, was claimed by and awarded to the Carolina Panthers.
Source: Former #Bears RB Mike Davis was claimed on waivers and awarded to the #Panthers.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 11, 2019
The former South Carolina running back had a breakout season with the Seattle Seahawks last year, piling up 514 rushing yards on 4.6 yards-per-carry to go along with four touchdowns.
Davis signed a two-year, $6 million deal with Chicago in the offseason. After running it five times for 19 yards and catching six passes for 17 yards in an opening week loss to the Packers, Davis never played more than 15 offensive snaps in any subsequent game, as he was relegated to special teams duty.
For Carolina, Davis is an experienced north-south runner who can finally lighten Christian McCaffrey's load on offense.
The #Bears are waiving RB Mike Davis, one of their free agent signings this past spring, source said. They gave him $6M over 2 years, but cut him after just 11 carries in part because of how it helps them get a comp pick. He’ll be attractive on the waiver wire.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 9, 2019
The Panthers need to exercise some restraint and not ride McCaffrey into the ground as they try to sneak into the playoffs. Adding Davis will give their running game a physical runner who can work his magic near the goal line.