JonathonBrooks

News: 18 hours agoBrooks (groin) doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Bears, Joe Person of The Athletic reports.

Spin: With Brooks cleared after practicing throughout the week, he appears on track to handle whatever role the team has in mind. Chuba Hubbard remains the favorite to start and get most of the carries, but reports throughout the offseason and preseason made it clear that the Panthers have a role in mind for Brooks as well.

ESPN Fantasy Projection: Brooks is hoping to get his career on track in 2026 after appearing in only one game since being drafted in the second round of the 2024 draft. Brooks spent most of his rookie season recovering from a torn ACL suffered while at the University of Texas. He returned in Week 12 and handled 12 touches in three games prior to retearing the same ACL and missing the entire 2025 season. Only 23 years old and skilled as a rusher and receiver, Brooks figures to eventually get his shot at a lead-back role in the pros. He's expected to battle for touches with Chuba Hubbard this season, so it's possible he quickly earns his way into a fantasy-relevant role. Consider him in the middle rounds.