The Carolina Panthers face a significant setback in their offensive plans as running back Jonathon Brooks, a highly touted second-round pick from the 2024 NFL Draft, has been placed on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list and will miss the entire 2025 season due to an ACL injury. The announcement, confirmed by ESPN’s Adam Schefter and other reliable sources, delivers a blow to the Panthers’ depth at the running back position and raises concerns about the long-term health and potential of the young player.
Brooks’ journey to the NFL has been marred by knee injuries. He initially suffered an ACL tear during his final season at the University of Texas, forcing him to miss the last four games of his collegiate career. Despite the injury, the Panthers saw enough potential in Brooks to select him with the 46th overall pick, making him the first running back chosen in the 2024 draft class. The team initially placed him on the reserve/non-football injury list at the start of the 2024 season, carefully managing his recovery and rehabilitation.
Brooks eventually made his NFL debut in Week 12 of the 2024 season against the Kansas City Chiefs, recording two carries for seven yards. He appeared in a total of three games, showcasing glimpses of his talent with nine carries for 22 yards and three receptions for 23 yards. However, his promising start was abruptly halted just two weeks later when he suffered another ACL tear in a game against the Philadelphia Eagles. This latest injury represents a major setback for Brooks and casts doubt on his availability and effectiveness moving forward.
The loss of Brooks for the 2025 season creates a void in the Panthers’ running back corps. The team will heavily rely on Chuba Hubbard, who excelled as the primary ball carrier in 2024. Hubbard’s strong performance earned him a contract extension, solidifying his role as a key component of the Panthers’ offense. However, the absence of Brooks diminishes the team’s depth and limits their options in the running game.
To address the situation, the Panthers proactively added reinforcements to the running back room during the offseason. They signed veteran running back Rico Dowdle in free agency and drafted Trevor Etienne in the fourth round of the 2024 NFL Draft. These additions provide the team with additional options and competition at the position.
Dowdle brings experience and versatility to the Panthers’ backfield. He has demonstrated the ability to contribute both as a runner and a receiver, offering a valuable skillset that complements Hubbard’s power running style. Etienne, a promising rookie, possesses explosive speed and agility, giving the Panthers a potential home-run threat in the running game.
With Brooks sidelined, Hubbard, Dowdle, and Etienne will likely compete for playing time during training camp. Hubbard is expected to maintain his role as the lead back, while Dowdle and Etienne will vie for opportunities to contribute as complementary players. The coaching staff will carefully evaluate their performance during training camp and preseason games to determine the optimal distribution of carries.
The injury to Brooks also impacts the Panthers’ salary cap situation. He is entering the second year of his rookie contract and is slated to count $1.91 million against the salary cap in 2024. While his absence will free up a roster spot, the team will still carry his cap hit, limiting their financial flexibility to address other needs.
The Panthers’ front office will need to consider the long-term implications of Brooks’ injury. The severity of the injury and the potential for recurring issues raise concerns about his future availability and performance. The team may need to explore additional options at the running back position through free agency or the draft in the coming years.
Brooks’ injury serves as a reminder of the physical demands and inherent risks associated with playing in the NFL. ACL tears are common injuries among football players, and the recovery process can be lengthy and challenging. The Panthers’ medical staff will provide Brooks with comprehensive rehabilitation support to help him regain his strength and mobility.
The Panthers’ coaching staff and teammates have expressed their support for Brooks, emphasizing the importance of his recovery and his potential to contribute to the team in the future. They recognize his talent and work ethic and remain optimistic that he will overcome this setback and return to the field stronger.
The loss of Brooks for the 2025 season presents a challenge for the Carolina Panthers, but the team has taken steps to address the situation by adding depth and talent to the running back position. Hubbard will lead the way, while Dowdle and Etienne will compete for opportunities to contribute. The Panthers’ success in the running game will depend on the collective performance of these players and the coaching staff’s ability to maximize their strengths.
The focus remains on Brooks’ recovery and rehabilitation. The Panthers are committed to providing him with the resources he needs to return to full health and realize his potential as an NFL running back. His journey will be closely monitored, and the team will provide updates on his progress as he works towards a comeback.
