Rookie running back Jonathon Brooks has been officially placed on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list by the Carolina Panthers, effectively ruling him out for the entirety of the 2025 NFL season. The unfortunate news comes as a significant blow to both Brooks and the Panthers, who had high hopes for the second-round pick out of the University of Texas.
The injury at the root of this decision is a torn ACL in Brooks’ right knee, suffered during a non-contact play against the Philadelphia Eagles on December 8, 2024. It’s particularly heartbreaking because it’s the same knee that he injured during his junior year at Texas in November 2023. At that time, the initial ACL tear ended a breakout college season and impacted his pre-draft preparation. Despite the injury, the Panthers still selected Brooks with the 46th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, clearly believing in his long-term potential.
Brooks spent the early part of his rookie season continuing rehabilitation and missed the first 10 games. Upon his return, he saw limited action in three games, recording nine carries for 22 yards and three receptions for 23 yards. Though the sample size was small, the team was excited to gradually integrate him more fully into the offense. Unfortunately, the re-injury halted all progress, forcing the team to shut him down for another year.
Panthers head coach Dave Canales expressed sympathy and support for Brooks, describing the rookie as “crushed and discouraged” by the recurrence of the injury. He emphasized the team’s commitment to standing by Brooks during his recovery and reiterated that they believe he has a bright future in the NFL. The organization plans to monitor his rehab closely and support him through every stage of the process.
With Brooks sidelined for the season, the Panthers will now rely on a reshuffled running back depth chart. Chuba Hubbard, who enjoyed a breakout 2024 campaign with 1,195 rushing yards, 10 touchdowns, and 43 receptions, remains the clear starter. Veteran Mike Boone is expected to slide into the No. 2 role, offering experience and stability. The team may also explore adding depth through free agency or undrafted talent as training camp approaches.
This development not only impacts the Panthers’ offensive plans but also delays Brooks’ NFL development by another crucial year. Coming off back-to-back ACL tears in the same knee raises legitimate long-term concerns about durability and recovery. Medical advances have improved recovery outcomes for such injuries, but repeated setbacks can affect both physical performance and mental confidence.
For Jonathon Brooks, the 2025 season becomes another test of resilience. While fans and analysts alike are disappointed by the news, many are still hopeful that, given time and proper rehabilitation, he can return to the form that made him one of the most exciting college running backs in the nation. For now, both Brooks and the Panthers will focus on recovery, patience, and planning for a stronger return in 2026.
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