The Carolina Panthers running back Jonathon Brooks entered the 2026 season with an opportunity to establish himself as the team’s lead back after battling through a series of devastating injuries.
However, his latest injury update has raised fresh concerns about his availability heading into Week 1.
What Is Jonathon Brooks’ Injury Status Ahead of the Panthers’ Week 1 Game?
Brooks participated in the Panthers’ first practice following the team’s move to its initial 53-man roster, but he was later spotted working separately with trainers during Tuesday’s session. Given his extensive history of injuries, the development is understandably concerning.
Panthers head coach Dave Canales later addressed Brooks’ situation, revealing that the running back is dealing with some soreness.
“JB’s got a little soreness,” Canales said. “I won’t get into specifics right now.”
Brooks’ practice participation will be worth watching closely over the next several days, as his status could ultimately determine whether he is available for Carolina’s Week 1 matchup against the Chicago Bears on Sept. 13.
The Panthers have high expectations for Brooks because of his explosive ability as a runner. Carolina selected the former Texas Longhorn with the No. 46 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, believing he could become an important piece of its backfield.
START PREPARING: PFN’s Free Fantasy Draft Simulator
Brooks enjoyed an incredible final season at Texas, earning second-team All-Big 12 honors. He led the Longhorns with 1,139 rushing yards on 187 carries, averaging 6.1 yards per attempt while scoring 10 rushing touchdowns.
Brooks’ season was later cut short after he suffered a torn ACL, though he still posted an 84.8 PFN College Football RB Impact score, which ranked 23rd nationally.
Unfortunately, Brooks’ injury troubles continued after he entered the NFL. He opened his rookie season on the reserve/non-football injury list while recovering from the ACL tear he suffered at Texas.
BE THE GM OF YOUR FAVORITE TEAM: PFN’s Free NFL Mock Draft Simulator
The Panthers activated Brooks on Nov. 6, 2024, and he made his NFL debut against the Kansas City Chiefs in November. However, a non-contact ACL tear occurred on his first carry in the game against the Philadelphia Eagles.
The injury ended Brooks’ season, and he finished the year with three games, including one start. In May 2025, he was placed on the physically unable to perform list, ruling him out for the entire 2025 season.
Brooks eventually received clearance to participate without restrictions in Carolina’s 2026 offseason program. This offseason represented his first full offseason of workouts as a professional.
Brooks appeared in two of the Panthers’ four preseason games and logged 20 offensive snaps. He rushed 8 times for 23 yards and a touchdown while also contributing 1 reception for 9 yards.
While Brooks’ latest soreness is something to monitor, there is currently no indication that he is dealing with another major injury.
