CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Carolina Panthers are set to open the practice window for rookie running back Jonathan Brooks this week, who was drafted in the second round out of Texas.
Brooks suffered a torn ACL in his knee last November while playing for the Longhorns, and since being selected by the Panthers, he has yet to participate in any team practice sessions.
At just 21 years old, Brooks may still need several weeks before he is considered for a spot on the 53-man roster due to his absence from on-field activities. Once the practice window opens, the Panthers will have three weeks to move him onto the roster.
“He possesses explosive potential, along with an impressive mix of size and speed,” noted Panthers coach Dave Canales. “His body control is quite exceptional compared to what we’ve seen in recent years. He’s very smooth as a pass catcher, capable of making big plays. He also shows a natural patience in how he runs, showcasing several desirable traits.”
Despite the overall struggles of the Panthers (1-5) this season, the running back position has not been one of their weaknesses.
Chuba Hubbard has been performing exceptionally well, recording his fourth consecutive game of rushing for at least 90 yards during Sunday’s 38-20 defeat to the Atlanta Falcons. Over the last five weeks, Hubbard has averaged more than 5.8 yards per carry, displaying great effort on the field.
Miles Sanders holds the position of No. 2 running back.
Regarding how Brooks might integrate into the running back lineup, Canales mentioned that it will depend on Brooks’ performance in practice and will be evaluated accordingly.
What’s working: Hubbard’s ability to consistently gain tough yards has significantly benefitted the team’s offense.
Canales appeared to lean on Hubbard during the game, but the strategy faltered. When trailing by eight points, Hubbard successfully converted three first downs on four straight runs. Unfortunately, a subsequent passing play called by Canales ended in an interception by Andy Dalton, which allowed the Falcons to secure a decisive touchdown.
What needs improvement: The Panthers’ defense has been underwhelming, with some stating it has been historically poor. They have surrendered a staggering 203 points in just six games, averaging 33.8 points per game this season—the ninth most points allowed in the NFL during the Super Bowl era.
Carolina has permitted 24 touchdowns—12 both rushing and passing—and allowed opponents to score on 75% of their trips inside the 20-yard line. This situation was compounded by offseason trades that left the team without key defensive players, as well as injuries to top players like defensive end Derrick Brown and linebacker Shaq Thompson.
Stock up: Rookie wide receiver Xavier Legette stood out with three receptions for 23 yards and his second career touchdown against the Falcons, even celebrating by pretending to ride a horse. The Panthers will need him to deliver more consistent performances as he progresses through his rookie season, and he’s starting to leverage his size to become a valuable red zone target.
Stock down: The punt team continues to struggle. For the second time this season, Johnny Hekker had a punt partially blocked, which allowed the Falcons to take over in favorable territory that led to a touchdown.
Injuries: The Panthers were unable to record a sack on Sunday with Jadeveon Clowney sitting out due to a shoulder injury; he is currently listed as day-to-day alongside right tackle Taylor Moton (triceps). The team is still working to get linebacker D.J. Wonnum back on the field after he has been on injured reserve the entire season.
Key statistic: 200 — total rushing yards allowed against Bijan Robinson and Tyler Allgeier.
Next steps: The Panthers now face two consecutive away games, first against Washington (4-2) and then against Denver (3-3).