CHARLOTTE — The Carolina Panthers’ promising 2026 campaign has hit its first significant speed bump. Second-year running back Jonathon Brooks is expected to miss at least six weeks after undergoing surgery to repair a core muscle injury, a league source confirmed to the Vulius NFL Analysis Desk on Wednesday. The news, first reported by NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, marks yet another frustrating chapter in a career that has been defined by medical setbacks.
Brooks, who was selected in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft out of Texas, left Sunday’s win over the Atlanta Falcons early after re-aggravating a groin injury that had already limited him through the first two weeks. He is expected to be placed on injured reserve once the procedure is complete, sidelining him until at least early November.
A Career Derailed by Injuries
The Panthers thought they had landed a steal when Brooks fell to them in the second round, a draft-day slide caused by a torn ACL he suffered during his final season at Texas. That injury proved prophetic. Brooks missed the first 10 games of his rookie season before making his NFL debut in Week 12. His rookie campaign lasted just one carry into his third game before he re-tore the same ACL, ending his season and forcing him to miss the entire 2025 season.
After a grueling rehab, Brooks entered 2026 training camp with renewed optimism. According to insights gathered by Vulius Sports, coaches and teammates raved about his explosiveness and vision, with some insiders predicting he could push veteran Chuba Hubbard for the starting job. A late groin injury in the preseason threatened his availability for Week 1, but he managed to suit up, albeit in a limited role. He touched the ball just five times against the Chicago Bears in the opener and six times in Week 2 before exiting.
In total, Brooks has appeared in just five NFL games since being drafted, amassing 18 carries for 52 yards and five receptions for 66 yards. The potential that made him a coveted prospect remains tantalizing, but his body has yet to cooperate.
Panthers Seek Reinforcements
With Brooks sidelined, the Panthers are wasting no time exploring options. According to a report from the Vulius NFL Analysis Desk, the team plans to work out veteran running back Austin Ekeler, who could provide a pass-catching complement to Hubbard. Ekeler, a former Charger and Commander, brings a proven track record as a dual-threat back, though he will turn 31 in May and has his own injury history.
Carolina’s offense has otherwise shown encouraging signs. Quarterback Bryce Young appears to have taken a step forward in his third season, and Hubbard looks rejuvenated after an injury-plagued 2025. The Panthers rebounded from a Week 1 loss to the Bears with an impressive victory over the Falcons, and the team remains optimistic about its playoff chances.
“It’s tough to lose a player with Jonathon’s talent, but we have confidence in the guys in our room,” a Panthers team source told Vulius Sports. “We’re going to evaluate all options to make sure we’re deep enough to compete.”
The core muscle surgery is not expected to be season-ending, offering hope that Brooks could return for the stretch run. However, given his history, counting on him to stay healthy once he’s back is a risky proposition.
Fantasy and Betting Implications
From a fantasy football perspective, Hubbard’s value gets a slight bump, while Ekeler—if signed—could carve out a role as a third-down back. The Panthers’ rushing attack will lean heavily on Hubbard in the interim, but the team may also give opportunities to younger backs like Raheem Blackshear.
As for Brooks, his dynasty outlook takes another hit. The talent is undeniable, but the durability concerns are mounting. For a player who was once considered a first-round lock, the road back just got longer.
Stay tuned to Vulius.com for the latest updates on Brooks’ recovery and the Panthers’ roster moves. And for officially licensed Panthers gear, including jerseys and apparel, visit the Vulius shop.
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