Jonathan Brooks was a promising pick for the Carolina Panthers. Drafted in the second round of 2024, the running back impressed fans and analysts alike with his combination of speed, agility, and determination. Yet now, less than two years into his NFL career, Brooks faces a challenging road ahead after suffering a second ACL tear in the same knee. This article explores the details of his injury, the Panthers’ response, and what the future may hold.

Jonathan Brooks’ Injury Timeline

Jonathan Brooks' rookie season was marked by both potential and adversity. Initially, he was sidelined as he recovered from an ACL tear suffered during his college career at Texas. The Panthers, aware of his injury risk, still took a chance on his talent. When Brooks finally got on the field late in the 2024 season, his performance turned heads. That run of good form, however, was cut short when he suffered another non-contact knee injury in early December against the Eagles. Medical evaluation confirmed the worst: a second ACL tear in less than 13 months.

According to NFL.com, the Panthers officially placed Jonathan Brooks on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list, ruling him out for the entire 2025 season. This decision was not unexpected but signals a cautious approach to his recovery. For a deeper rundown of the transaction and league context, see the full NFL news roundup here.

Panthers’ Response and Roster Moves

Losing Jonathan Brooks left the Panthers with critical questions in their backfield. After confirming that Brooks will not play in 2025, the team took action to ensure depth and competition. They signed Rico Dowdle as a short-term solution and spent a fourth-round pick on Trevor Etienne. This contingency planning highlights the uncertainty over Brooks' long-term future.

A recent Sports Illustrated article details how the Panthers have begun preparing for life without Brooks, evaluating backup options for Chuba Hubbard and making tough decisions like cutting Miles Sanders. The article questions whether Brooks can ever return to his previous form after two serious injuries, raising concerns for both the franchise and fans.

What’s Next for Jonathan Brooks?

The outlook for Jonathan Brooks is uncertain. Missing two full seasons due to consecutive ACL injuries is a significant hurdle for any NFL player, especially a running back whose game relies on explosiveness and confidence in his knee. As Yahoo Sports reports, league insiders have voiced concerns about both his physical development and the limited game experience he will have by 2026.

Before the injuries, Brooks had shown flashes of top-tier talent both in college and in his brief pro appearances. If he recovers well and regains confidence in his skills, the Panthers could face a good problem: a crowded backfield with Brooks, Hubbard, and Etienne all competing for carries. Still, two major injuries have raised questions about his durability and long-term potential.

Conclusion

Jonathan Brooks’ journey from college star to sidelined pro has been filled with highs and lows. The Carolina Panthers, committed to both his health and their own future, are taking a conservative approach to his rehabilitation. Only time will tell if Brooks can overcome these setbacks and return to the field at full strength. For now, Panthers fans and NFL observers alike are left hoping he can make a successful comeback and fulfill his early promise.

Stay up to date with all breaking NFL news and follow the ongoing story of Jonathan Brooks as the 2026 season approaches. If you're interested in related updates or detailed coverage, refer to the Yahoo Sports development analysis and other trusted outlets linked above.