When the Panthers traded up in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft for running back Jonathon Brooks out of the University of Texas, they were expecting a steal, despite his recovery from an ACL injury. Brooks sat out until Week 11 of 2024 before seeing the field.

Come Week 14 of 2024, Brooks again tore his ACL in the same knee on a non-contact play. The rookie was forced to miss the remainder of 2024 and the entirety of the 2025 season.

Recently, Panthers head coach Dave Canales commented that “He’s flying around, he’s big, he’s beautiful looking. He one of the more powerful, explosive athletes we have. He’s gonna have an opportunity to compete to start for this team.”

If that doesn’t get fans excited, what will? Carolina can move on from Rico Dowdle’s expiring contract, with Chuba Hubbard and 2025 rookie Trevor Etienne also on the roster. If healthy, Brooks is an immediate RB1 behind this offensive line at full strength. With the recent development of Bryce Young and the young wideouts, this Panthers offense will be flying.

Author: Jesse Baldwin (@J_Baldwin51)