Brooks, who was selected 46th overall in the 2024 NFL Draft, had been managing a groin issue earlier in the week but was notably absent from the final injury report released on Friday. His availability provides a boost to the Panthers' backfield as they prepare to face Chicago, with the coaching staff eager to integrate him into the offensive rotation alongside veteran Chuba Hubbard.
Integrating a New Backfield Duo
Coach Canales expressed his enthusiasm regarding the potential of the tandem, noting that the organization has been preparing for a long time to feature both Brooks and Hubbard as the primary leaders of the rushing attack. While Hubbard is listed as the starter on the team's unofficial depth chart—having recovered from a hamstring injury that kept him out of preseason action—the plan is for both players to share the workload throughout the season.
The path to this point has been challenging for the young running back. Brooks has appeared in only three regular-season games since being drafted, largely due to complications stemming from back-to-back surgeries on his right ACL. His last competitive appearance prior to this summer's preseason occurred in December 2024, when he suffered a setback against the Philadelphia Eagles during his rookie campaign.
Building Momentum After Preseason Work
Throughout the recent training camp and preseason, the Panthers took a cautious approach to managing Brooks' workload. He saw action in two preseason games, logging 17 snaps and recording eight carries for 23 yards, along with one reception for 9 yards. His development was further supported by significant repetition during joint practices against the Jacksonville Jaguars and the Houston Texans.
As the Panthers finalize their roster for the opening week, the depth at the position remains a focus. Beyond the primary duo of Brooks and Hubbard, the team has retained veteran AJ Dillon. Meanwhile, the injury report shows that outside linebacker Patrick Jones II is currently the only player sidelined, listed as week-to-week with an injury sustained in practice. With the medical hurdles now behind him, Brooks is poised to make his mark as the Panthers look to establish their ground game against the Bears.
