NFL Futures: Panther’s RB Jonathon Brooks Injured Again

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Panthers Face Major Setback as Jonathon Brooks Suffers Another ACL Tear

Carolina Panthers rookie running back Jonathon Brooks suffered a devastating setback, re-tearing the ACL in his right knee during Sunday’s game against the Philadelphia Eagles.  The injury, occurring on a non-contact play in the first quarter, has ended Brooks’ season and casts doubt on his availability for the 2025 campaign. This development significantly impacts Carolina’s backfield and raises questions about the team’s long-term strategy at running back, creating ripple effects in the Panthers’ NFL Futures.

Brooks’ Injury Details and Recovery Outlook

Jonathon Brooks, the first running back selected in the 2024 NFL Draft out of Texas, sustained the injury during a 3-yard loss when he went down without contact. The Panthers head coach, Dave Canales, confirmed Monday that an MRI revealed a re-tear of Brooks’ ACL, although no additional damage to the knee was detected.

Brooks will require another surgery, and the rehabilitation process is expected to stretch well into the 2025 season, likely sidelining him until 2026.

This marks Brooks’ second ACL surgery in just over a year, following the initial injury sustained in November 2023 while playing for Texas. Despite returning to the field in 2024 after a cautious recovery, the setback will force Brooks to start his professional career with an extended absence.

“My heart is with him,” Canales said, reflecting the team’s disappointment and concern for the young player’s future.

The Panthers’ Handling of Brooks’ Return

Brooks returned from injured reserve in November, debuting with two carries in Week 12 against the Kansas City Chiefs and handling nine touches the following week against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

While the coaching staff was cautious, holding Brooks out of the team’s game in Munich due to concerns about the field’s condition, questions remain about whether Brooks should have sat out the entire season to ensure a more robust recovery.

The Panthers’ medical team followed a typical timeline for ACL recoveries, with Brooks returning a full year after his initial procedure. However, this second tear highlights the risks of early returns from such significant injuries. 

NFL stars like Adrian Peterson and Thomas Davis have successfully returned from similar injuries, but those examples also underscore the importance of both time and careful management.

Implications for the Panthers’ Backfield

Brooks’ absence leaves a significant void in Carolina’s plans for a dynamic backfield tandem. His shifty, change-of-pace style was intended to complement Chuba Hubbard’s downhill running. Instead, the Panthers must now reevaluate their depth chart.

Adding to the team’s woes, Raheem Blackshear was hospitalized with a chest injury during the same game. Miles Sanders sidelined with an ankle injury and on injured reserve, won’t be eligible to return until December 22 against the Arizona Cardinals. 

The Panthers are left with Mike Boone and Emani Bailey on the practice squad, as their only healthy options in the backfield.

Long-Term Considerations for 2025 and Beyond

Brooks’ injury adds urgency to the Panthers’ offseason planning. The team is now expected to revisit its strategy at running back, with questions about Miles Sanders’ future in Carolina. After falling out of favor under interim coaching changes, Sanders may be released to create cap space. 

Cutting Sanders would save the Panthers $5.2 million against the cap, though it would result in $2.95 million in dead money.

Looking ahead to 2025, the Panthers must determine whether to rely on existing options, explore free agency, or target a running back in the draft. Brooks’ long-term potential remains promising, evidenced by his standout collegiate career, but the team must prepare for his prolonged absence.