North Charlotte Today

Jonathon Brooks, the Carolina Panthers' second-round pick, returned to practice after recovering from an ACL injury. Miles Sanders and other teammates showed their support during Wednesday's session. Brooks was injured last November while playing for Texas, and his recovery has been cautious to ensure a successful return.

Quarterback Andy Dalton expressed his excitement about Brooks joining the huddle. "For him, just being in the huddle, him getting comfortable hearing the play, doing the right thing. I'm excited to see what he's going to be able to do," Dalton stated.

Offensive coordinator Canales explained the team's approach: "Just looking for the confidence... when we can see that happen and we see the comfort and confidence to play fast, then we know that he's ready to go."

Brooks acknowledged the importance of taking time for recovery: "This is really a 12-month recovery for this injury... I feel good," he said after practice. He reflected on his progress since tearing his ACL on November 11, 2023.

The Panthers have a three-week period to evaluate Brooks before deciding on activating him. Thursday's padded practice will test his readiness as he faces contact for the first time in nearly a year.

Canales noted, "It's certainly going to be week to week... We have to be able to see him play comfortably at full speed."

The team has been performing well with Chuba Hubbard leading the run game. Brooks expressed relief knowing there was no rush for his return: "It definitely felt really good, not having like the pressure of coming back," he commented.

Brooks emphasized mental preparation alongside physical recovery: "Truthfully, I'd say it's probably... a lot more mental than it is physically," he said. With encouragement from coaches and teammates, Brooks feels ready: "You know, the time is right. It feels like it's right."