Jonathon Brooks to miss 2025 NFL season: Panthers prioritize rookie’s recovery

[ASFN Admin]

The Carolina Panthers have placed running back Jonathon Brooks on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list, ruling him out for the entire 2025 season, per ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The decision follows Brooks’ second ACL tear in his right knee, suffered during a Week 14 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles in 2024. The rookie, selected 46th overall in the 2024 NFL Draft, underwent surgery in January and faces a lengthy recovery.

Panthers RB Jonathon Brooks tore his ACL during Week 14 last season. By being placed on PUP now, Brooks will be given time to get healthy after his second ACL tear in as many years. https://t.co/Ptizh8gIx8pic.twitter.com/XIbUvwgTPO

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) May 8, 2025

Brooks, a former Texas Longhorn, showed promise in limited action, carrying the ball nine times before the injury. His absence is a blow to Carolina’s backfield, but the Panthers are prioritizing his long-term health. Chuba Hubbard, fresh off a contract extension, will lead the running game, being backed up by the signing of Rico Dowdle to a one-year deal. Trevor Etienne and Raheem Blackshear provide additional depth.

The Panthers’ conservative approach appears to be what is best for Brooks’ knee durability, with a potential return targeted for 2026 training camp. Fans remain hopeful that the 21-year-old can reclaim his place in Carolina’s backfield in the future.

This article originally appeared on Touchdown Wire: Panthers’ Jonathon Brooks out for 2025 recovering from ACL tear

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