Carolina Panthers running back Jonathan Brooks could be heavily involved in the passing game this season. According to head coach Dave Canales, the rookie running back's versatility is "probably the biggest thing that stood out" when the Panthers studied Brooks prior to last month's draft. Although he's recovering from a torn ACL, Brooks was still the first running back off the board, emphasizing Carolina's interest in deploying him as soon as he's healthy. Brooks will compete for touches in a backfield that consists of Chuba Hubbard, Miles Sanders, and Rashaad Penny, but he might be the best pass-catching option of that group. Canales' glowing comments boost Brooks' fantasy value, and so does the new head coach's experience in Tampa Bay. As Buccaneers offensive coordinator, Canales helped funnel plenty of targets to emerging dual-threat back Rachaad White. White finished last season as the RB4 in PPR leagues, so it's safe to say that Brooks' upside is quite high if he can indeed get involved both on the ground and through the air. Perhaps the biggest obstacle will be the Panthers' offense, which may have to prioritize throwing deeper if they're playing from behind in 2024.

From RotoBaller

The Carolina Panthers traded with the Indianapolis Colts to move up to the 46th spot to select Texas Longhorns running back Jonathon Brooks (knee). He was behind Bijan Robinson and Roschon Johnson on the Texas depth chart for two seasons. However, he broke out in 2023 with 1,139 yards and 10 rushing scores and was named second-team All-Big 12. The 20-year-old tore his ACL late in the season but should be ready for training camp. Brooks joins a crowded running back room with Chuba Hubbard and Miles Sanders, which could limit his fantasy value early in the season, but he should be a late first-round pick in dynasty rookie drafts.

Texas running back Jonathan Brooks (knee) said that he's ahead of schedule in regards to his rehab/recovery from his ACL injury last year and he'll be ready by July 1, which means he'll be ready for his first training camp in the NFL this summer. Brooks is almost four months removed from tearing his ACL on Nov. 12 of last year, so the 20-year-old has not been able to work out for scouts and coaches at this week's NFL combine in Indianapolis. In a weak RB class for this year's NFL draft, Brooks is considered the favorite to be the first running back to come off the board, mostly likely in the second or third round. Coming off a serious knee injury will make it hard to predict his first-year fantasy value at the next level, and it will also depend on where Brooks ends up.

From RotoBaller