Now that the 2025 NFL season has concluded, the Carolina Panthers are reviewing each position group as they prepare for the 2026 offseason. This analysis focuses on the running backs, a unit central to head coach Dave Canales’ game plan.
“Good things happen when you run the ball; you run the ball when good things happen,” Canales said. “It works both ways, and it’s a part of who we are.”
Chuba Hubbard led the backfield in 2024 with 1,195 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns, earning a contract extension through 2028. The Panthers also added Rico Dowdle via free agency after his own 1,000-yard season. The initial plan was for Hubbard and Dowdle to share carries throughout the year.
However, an early-season calf injury sidelined Hubbard in Week 4. Dowdle took over during Weeks 5-9, amassing 652 yards and three touchdowns on 103 carries, including standout performances against Miami (206 yards), Dallas (183 yards), and Green Bay (130 yards). His contributions helped keep the team competitive while Hubbard recovered.
After returning from injury, Hubbard provided another 734 combined yards from scrimmage but saw fewer snaps as Dowdle continued to play a leading role. Dowdle finished with his second consecutive season above 1,000 rushing yards.
Heading into the offseason, several running backs remain under contract: Chuba Hubbard (through 2028), Trevor Etienne (2028), Jonathan Brooks (2027), Montrell Johnson (2026), and Tre Tyus (2026). Rico Dowdle is set to become an unrestricted free agent.
Dowdle expressed concerns about his limited playoff workload after getting only five carries in the wild card game compared to Hubbard’s thirteen. “At least part of that was a function of only getting 22 carries as a team,” according to team statements.
With Dowdle turning 28 this offseason and entering free agency, both he and the team face decisions about his future in Carolina. General manager Dan Morgan has not ruled out re-signing him.
Jonathan Brooks is recovering from his second ACL injury but remains an option for depth due to his speed potential. However, with just nine career rushing attempts over two seasons, expectations remain cautious.
The Panthers are expected to add at least one more player to this group through free agency or the draft to complement their existing roster. The organization continues its efforts toward building a championship culture and supporting community initiatives across North and South Carolina as highlighted on their official website.
The franchise has achieved multiple division titles and playoff appearances since joining the NFL in 1995 as an expansion team based in Charlotte, North Carolina (source). Home games take place in downtown Charlotte (source).
Stay tuned for updates as offseason moves unfold.
