Panthers Make Big Move for Texas Star RB Jonathon Brooks in 2024 Draft

This draft season, the Carolina Panthers aren’t messing around! Following their trade-up for wide receiver Xavier Legette in the first round, the Panthers struck again, selecting Texas’ top running back prospect, Jonathan Brooks, with the 46th overall selection. Their offense has significantly improved as a result of this audacious trade with the Indianapolis Colts.

It’s obvious that the Panthers envision star quarterback and top draft selection Bryce Young as the cornerstone of their formidable team. Following a season in which the Panthers’ rushing assault finished 20th in yards and a dismal 30th in touchdowns, Brooks—who was strongly linked to the RB-hungry Dallas Cowboys—will now try to revitalize the unit.

Even after rupturing his ACL in November, Brooks is still one of the 2024 draft’s most intriguing running backs. Ian Rapoport of NFL Network Insiders has good news: Brooks is expected to recover fully by July and be prepared for training camp. He reports a clean injury.

With his explosive speed and 6-foot, 216-pound frame, Brooks can blow past defenses. He fits in well with a zone running scheme because of his decisive, aggressive running style. Despite not being the most explosive rusher in this class, he might be Carolina’s primary back due to his low college mileage (238 carries), keen vision, and ability to recover from injuries.

Miles Sanders and Chuba Hubbard lead the running back group that Brooks has joined. Anticipate intense competition for carries as the Panthers seek to move up the depth chart in line with their draft strategy.