Brooks' Soreness Casts Doubt on Panthers' Week 1 Plans
Carolina Panthers running back Jonathon Brooks, who has twice torn his ACL, is dealing with soreness and was limited to stationary bike work after sitting out a practice. He has yet to reach double-digit carries in his NFL career, and the team has been cautious with him throughout camp. His availability for the season opener remains uncertain as the Panthers manage his workload.
Brooks has twice torn the same ACL within a 13-month span, and his NFL career totals fewer than ten carries. The Panthers have managed his workload throughout camp, often having him work off to the side during drills. He last played on August 26 during a joint practice, yet reported soreness forced him to sit out two consecutive sessions this week, limited to stationary bike work.
The team's injury list extends well beyond Brooks. Defensive end Nic Scourton tore his ACL on the first day of camp, tackle Taylor Moton is sidelined with blood clots, and guard Ikem Ekwonu is recovering from a patellar tendon tear. Running back Chuba Hubbard also missed the entire preseason, leaving the backfield thin as Carolina prepares for its season opener against Chicago.
This story could affect Panthers fans and fantasy football managers alike, as Brooks' availability directly shapes Carolina's offensive game plan for Week 1. His recurring knee issues may also influence how the team approaches his long-term usage, potentially limiting his role even when healthy. For a franchise defending a division title, uncertainty around a key playmaker could impact early-season momentum and fan confidence in the team's depth.