Carolina Panthers running back Jonathon Brooks was placed on injured reserve after sustaining groin and core muscle injuries in Week 2 of the 2026 season, causing him to miss each of the last six games. The Panthers opened Brooks' 21-day practice window to return from injured reserve on Wednesday, and he was listed as a full participant for Wednesday's and Thursday's practice sessions. But on Friday, a Panthers team spokesperson admitted those designations were a mistake.
Brooks, as well as cornerback Mike Jackson, took scout team reps and should have been listed as limited for both of those days. Both Brooks and Jackson were officially listed as doubtful for Sunday's Week 10 matchup against the New Orleans Saints. Starting running back Chuba Hubbard has stepped up in a big way with Brooks unavailable.
Through eight games this season, he has 619 rushing yards, five rushing touchdowns, 167 receiving yards and two receiving touchdowns — serving as the engine of the Panthers' offense. The Panthers' running back depth chart is thin behind Hubbard, featuring Trevor Etienne, AJ Dillon and Anthony Tyus III. Carolina is 3-5 to begin their 2026 campaign, dropping each of their last three games.
However, they still sit atop the NFC South standings — tied with the Saints. Sunday's Week 10 clash against New Orleans will kick off at 1 p.m.
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