Jonathan Brooks entered the NFL brimming with potential, only to face a challenging start to his professional career. Drafted by the Carolina Panthers in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft, Brooks was anticipated to become a key part of the team's offense. However, consecutive ACL injuries have placed his career on an uncertain path.

Early Promise and NFL Draft Journey

Brooks shined as a Texas Longhorns running back, finishing his college career with impressive stats. In just 10 games during his final season at Texas, Jonathan Brooks racked up 1,139 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns, earning Second-Team All-Big 12 honors. His standout play made him the first running back selected in the 2024 draft—continuing Texas’ reputation as a hotbed for elite running backs.

Upon entering the league, expectations were high for Brooks. Sports Illustrated detailed how the Panthers hoped he would revitalize their ground game. Brooks debuted for the Panthers in Week 12 of the 2024 NFL season, showing flashes of his college brilliance but managing only limited touches due to his ongoing recovery from an initial ACL tear.

Setbacks and Injury Woes

Tragically, Brooks suffered another ACL tear in his right knee after only three games in his rookie season. This repeated injury has sidelined him for the entirety of the 2025 NFL season. According to NFL.com, Brooks was officially placed on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list by the Panthers. He has faced two serious knee surgeries within thirteen months, making his path back to top form a steep climb.

Brooks’ rookie year statistics reflected his limited on-field time—just nine carries for 22 rushing yards and three receptions for 23 yards. Yahoo Sports reports that the Panthers’ front office now approaches his future cautiously, concerned about his development and long-term recovery.

The Competitive Backfield and Future Outlook

During Brooks’ absence, Chuba Hubbard took over as Carolina’s feature back, rushing for over 1,100 yards in 2024 and earning a four-year contract extension. The Panthers also acquired Rico Dowdle and drafted Trevor Etienne to address the running back position. With so much competition, Brooks will need to prove his health and ability when he returns for the 2026 season.

Despite these setbacks, the story of Jonathan Brooks is far from over. At only 22 years old, he has time to recover and reignite the promise that made him such a coveted draft pick. If Brooks regains his form, he could still become a key player for the Panthers or elsewhere in the NFL.

Conclusion

Jonathan Brooks’ journey is a testament to the unpredictable nature of football. Adversity has struck early in his professional career, but his youth and previous talent suggest a possible resurgence. Panthers fans—and football followers everywhere—will be watching to see if Brooks can overcome his injuries and fulfill his immense potential.

For ongoing updates and in-depth analysis, visit NFL.com’s latest league news and keep an eye on Yahoo Sports’ reports regarding Jonathan Brooks and his path back to the field.