Panthers' Jonathon Brooks returns to preseason action after second ACL tear

Jonathon Brooks, a running back for the Carolina Panthers, made his return to live game action on Saturday during a preseason game, marking a significant milestone in his recovery from a second torn ACL. Brooks, who was selected in the second round of the 2024 NFL draft out of Texas, had suffered his first ACL tear in his final college game in 2023. Despite that injury, the Panthers drafted him, and he spent the early part of his rookie season rehabbing before making his NFL debut in November 2024. However, after just nine carries, he tore the same ACL again in Week 14 of the 2024 season, forcing him to miss the remainder of that year and the entire 2025 season.

In Saturday's game, Brooks took the field with the first-string offense and recorded four touches. While he did not produce spectacular statistics, the mere fact that he was able to play, take hits, and get tackled was a major step forward. Panthers head coach Dave Canales expressed his emotional reaction, saying, "It just felt good to see him out there running, getting hit, getting tackled, popping up and going back to the huddle. I got a little emotional just knowing the journey to get him back to that point."

The Panthers are counting on Brooks to help fill the void left by Rico Dowdle, who departed in free agency to the Pittsburgh Steelers. Dowdle was the team's leading rusher last season. With Brooks now back on the field, the team hopes he can step up and contribute significantly to their running game. His return is particularly important as the Panthers look to improve their offense and provide support for their quarterback. The coaching staff and teammates are optimistic about his potential, and his performance in the preseason will be closely watched as the regular season approaches.