The Carolina Panthers’ decision to draft Jonathon Brooks in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft was undoubtedly a long-term investment, and the wait to see him on the field is finally over. Despite concerns about his torn ACL during the draft process, the Panthers clearly saw the potential for Brooks to become a key piece of their offense. His collegiate production at Texas, where he averaged an impressive 6.1 yards per carry and was a frontrunner for the Doak Walker Award, speaks to his ability as a dynamic and productive running back.
Brooks’ debut comes at a crucial time for Carolina, as they face the defending Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs. While it’s unlikely he’ll carry a heavy workload in his first game back, his presence should provide a spark to the Panthers’ offense. Head coach Dave Canales has shown confidence in Brooks’ ability to contribute, even after a significant injury layoff.
For Panthers fans, this is an exciting moment. Brooks brings a combination of vision, agility, and big-play potential that Carolina has been missing in its backfield. How Canales integrates him into the offense will be worth watching, especially against a tough Chiefs defense. His long-term role in Carolina’s rebuilding process could make this debut the start of something special for both the player and the team.
Jonathon Brooks is expected to make his debut Sunday vs. the Chiefs, per HC Dave Canales pic.twitter.com/8HQeIZPf9I
— B/R Gridiron (@brgridiron) November 18, 2024
Jonathon Brooks’ NFL debut will not only be an exciting moment for the Panthers but could also have long-term implications for Carolina’s running back room. With Chuba Hubbard establishing himself as the lead back this season and earning a lucrative four-year, $33.2 million extension, Brooks will initially be competing for complementary carries. Hubbard’s breakout has solidified his role as the cornerstone of Carolina’s ground attack, but Brooks’ upside offers the Panthers an intriguing dynamic.
If Brooks can quickly regain his pre-injury form and deliver on his potential, it may make Miles Sanders expendable this offseason. Sanders signed a significant contract in 2023 but has struggled to justify the investment. By moving on from Sanders, the Panthers could free up valuable cap space while entrusting their backfield to a Hubbard-Brooks tandem—balancing established production with a promising, younger player.
This scenario reflects a broader strategy of building for the future. If Brooks thrives, Carolina’s offense could see a major boost, with two capable backs providing balance and versatility. The upcoming weeks will provide insight into how well Brooks can adapt to the NFL level and how his role in the Panthers’ long-term plans might evolve.
